UAE National Day travel bookings soar by 35% amid festive spirit
Popular destinations include Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East
DUBAI: With the UAE National Day just around the corner, the country’s leading online travel agency reports a remarkable 35 percent increase in travel bookings compared to the same period last year.
This surge reflects a rising eagerness among UAE travellers to explore new horizons and create unforgettable memories during the holiday.
“The feedback from our customers has been overwhelmingly positive,” shared Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. “Many are optimistic and excited about their upcoming trips, eager to explore and celebrate. Local tourism businesses are also gearing up to cater to diverse preferences, offering everything from all-inclusive relaxation packages to exhilarating theme park adventures at Warner Bros, LEGOLAND etc. Another interesting aspect is the rise in cruise tourism, many families and groups looking for short breaks and staycations choose the all-inclusive cruise packages.”
Key Insights
Changing Booking Demographics: musafir.com’s insights reveal that family trips account for 35% of bookings, followed by couples at 30%, groups of friends at 15%, and solo travelers at 12%. This highlights the diverse travel preferences among different groups.
Shift in Booking behaviour: In terms of booking behaviour, while the UAE market traditionally leans towards last-minute travel arrangements, there has been a noticeable shift. Currently, 30% are planning ahead, particularly for destinations requiring visas, signaling a growing awareness of the benefits of early bookings.
Longer Itineraries on the rise: Among the UAE travellers, 65% are opting for 5- to 7-day immersive experiences, allowing for quality family time and deeper cultural engagement. This trend reflects a desire for meaningful travel experiences and the opportunity to engage with new cultures.
Destinations in demand for Longer Itineraries: Popular choices include iconic cities like Paris, known for its art and culture; Rome, where history meets gastronomy; and scenic locations such as Lisbon and Budapest. Travelers are particularly excited about combo packages, such as Switzerland- Paris and Switzerland-Italy, offering a seamless blend of cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Latvia is gaining traction for its enchanting landscapes and rich history, particularly its capital, Riga, known for stunning architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Southeast Asia is also popular as travelers explore packages for Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand. These destinations are favored for their rich cultures and stunning landscapes, allowing for diverse experiences. Adventure seekers are drawn to South Africa and Japan, known for thrilling activities that create lasting memories.
Popularity of Short Breaks: For those seeking quick getaways, 45% of bookings reflect interest in 3- to 4-night trips to nearby destinations like Georgia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and the Maldives. These quick getaways allow travelers to recharge while experiencing new cultures and landscapes, making them ideal for families and professionals alike.
Unique Experiences vs. Tourist Attractions: While 70% of travellers prefer classic tourist activities, 30% seek unique experiences, favouring destinations like Tunisia and Morocco for immersive cultural encounters.
Group Departures gain traction: Group tours are on the rise, offering structured, cost-effective, and hassle-free experiences. This trend appeals particularly to those who value convenience and discounted rates on flights, accommodation, and activities.
Interest in Regional Tourism: Neighbouring countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar are seeing increased interest from UAE travellers, with events like Riyadh Season and Qatar's cultural festivals drawing crowds. The upcoming Riyadh Season and cultural festivals in Qatar attract many, while others plan to utilize National Day holidays for Umrah pilgrimages, benefiting from favorable weather conditions and spiritual significance.
Rise in Cruise Tourism: An exciting trend is the rise in cruise tourism, with families choosing all-inclusive cruise packages starting at AED 1,299 for 2- or 3-night voyages. These cruises between the UAE and Oman offer a relaxed, all-encompassing experience at a great value.
Young travellers explore budget destinations: Travellers aged 22–27 are exploring budget-friendly options, with packages ranging from AED 2,500 to AED 3,500, reflecting a youthful desire for adventure on a budget.
musafir.com advises early planning for destinations requiring visas, particularly for Schengen areas and group tours to Europe. With a variety of all-inclusive packages and the “Buy Now, Pay Later” option, travellers can make the most of their holiday budget while enjoying seamless arrangements and focusing on creating lasting memories.