Eid Al Fitr 2025: UAE staycations gain popularity amid holiday travel rush
High flight costs push travellers towards local holiday experiences

As Eid Al Fitr approaches, UAE residents are gearing up for the first extended holiday of the year, driving a surge in travel demand.
Expected to fall on 30 March 2025, the holiday aligns with the school break, making it an attractive period for families to take a getaway.
However, high airfares and rising hotel costs in popular destinations are reshaping travel plans, with many opting for local luxury staycations instead.
Staycations on the rise
Industry experts note a significant uptick in staycations as UAE residents seek cost-effective yet indulgent alternatives to international travel. According to Expedia's Spring Travel Outlook, Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi have emerged as top choices, with RAK witnessing an astonishing 240 percent increase in searches compared to last year.
The northern emirate’s blend of beach resorts, desert retreats, and mountain escapes is proving highly attractive to travellers looking for a short yet immersive getaway. Dubai hotels, meanwhile, are reporting strong occupancy rates, with Thomas Kurian, Director at LEVA Hotels, confirming that 50 percent of their rooms are already booked, and final occupancy could reach 90 percent. “Travellers are becoming more value-conscious, seeking flexible packages, all-inclusive options, and personalised experiences,” Kurian said.

Outbound travel trends
Despite high costs, a substantial number of UAE residents are still looking at international travel. Travel firm Musafir reports that 60 percent of residents are considering overseas trips for Eid. However, this contrasts with earlier data from Dnata Travel, which indicated that 90 percent of UAE travellers were planning international trips for Eid this year, compared to 60 percent in 2024.
The discrepancy suggests a shift in booking behaviour, with early planners securing overseas travel while later bookers explore more budget-friendly options. Many are waiting for last-minute deals or reconsidering travel outside the peak period to avoid inflated prices.
Maldives & beyond
For those heading abroad, regional destinations are proving especially popular. Expedia data reveals that Bahrain and Cairo are seeing strong interest due to their cultural attractions and proximity to the UAE.
Meanwhile, the ‘White Lotus Effect’ is boosting Phuket’s appeal, and the Maldives continues to be a prime choice. Searches for the island destination have surged 515 percent, with its four-hour flight time making it a feasible option for an extended long weekend.
Travellers looking to save on airfares are advised to consider off-peak departures, with 20 March and 12 April being the most cost-effective dates. By contrast, 3 April is expected to be the most expensive day to fly.
Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks report also suggests that booking flights six to 12 days in advance can yield savings of up to 21 percent, with Tuesdays being the quietest and potentially cheapest day to travel.
Eid’s impact on hospitality
For the UAE’s hospitality industry, this period represents a crucial revenue opportunity. With a typical booking window of three to four days, hotels are expecting a last-minute surge in reservations. Luxury properties are especially in demand as families prioritise stress-free, all-inclusive experiences that allow them to relax without the hassle of long-haul travel.
Kurian of LEVA Hotels highlights the evolving preferences of modern travellers. “Guests are looking for curated experiences that go beyond just accommodation. Personalised service, seamless check-ins, and premium amenities are now essential elements of a great staycation,” he explained.
With both inbound and outbound travel witnessing strong momentum, Eid al-Fitr 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark season for the UAE’s travel and hospitality industry.