DUBAI: With the Eid holidays fast approaching, UAE residents are actively booking trips, with a significant rise in demand for family-oriented, experiential travel.
According to musafir.com, nearly 60 percent of travellers are choosing outbound trips, while 40-45 percent are opting for inbound travel to welcome family and friends for local celebrations.
This travel boom has led to a 30 percent increase in Eid holiday bookings compared to last year. The surge in interest highlights a growing trend where residents prioritise reconnecting with loved ones or embarking on enriching getaways.
Expatriates are also seizing the occasion to visit their home countries, underscoring the cultural and emotional importance of Eid.
Rising costs and package deals
The spike in demand has resulted in a noticeable rise in travel costs. Airfares on high-demand routes have climbed by 15-20 percent, while hotel rates have surged by 20-30 percent during peak holiday periods. In response, all-inclusive holiday packages have become increasingly attractive, offering a convenient and cost-effective way for families to plan their vacations.
Musafir.com has curated exclusive packages, starting at Dh3,199 per person, including flights, 4- or 5-star accommodations, city tours, and visa assistance. These packages cater to diverse preferences, ensuring travellers can enjoy a seamless and memorable experience without financial strain.
Top destinations for Eid holidays
UAE travellers are favouring destinations that offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa options. CIS countries – including Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia – are among the top picks due to their accessibility and affordability. Interest in European hotspots such as Switzerland, Italy, Germany, France, and Latvia is also on the rise, with Latvia emerging as an affordable yet captivating choice.
Southeast Asian destinations, including Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand, continue to attract UAE holidaymakers, while African escapes such as South Africa, Kenya, and Zanzibar are gaining traction for their unique cultural experiences and adventurous offerings.
While spontaneous travel remains popular, those heading to visa-dependent destinations, such as Japan and parts of Europe, are planning ahead to ensure hassle-free entry. The growing interest in diverse destinations indicates a shift towards more immersive and culturally rich experiences.
Budget-friendly travel
Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com, commented on the evolving travel landscape: “Eid-Al-Fitr, Eid-Al-Adha, and seasonal breaks are peak travel periods when we see a sharp rise in outbound travel. Post-COVID, there has been a steady 20-25 percent annual increase in travel demand, as more people seek meaningful experiences with family and friends. Travel is no longer a luxury but an essential part of life.”
Despite the surge in demand, many travellers are mindful of their budgets. This has led to an increase in bookings for budget-friendly destinations and group travel packages, offering comfort and affordability. With travellers prioritising financial planning, curated deals and cost-effective holiday options have become highly sought-after.
Visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa options are driving a trend of spontaneous travel among UAE residents. Destinations such as Turkey, Georgia, and CIS countries, along with Gulf states like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Morocco, offer hassle-free entry, making them ideal for last-minute holiday plans.
With the combination of cultural festivities, exciting travel opportunities, and flexible booking options, this Eid is set to be one of the busiest holiday seasons yet.