Dubai – As Eid Al Fitr approaches, UAE residents are preparing for family-oriented travel, with a sharp rise in demand for budget-friendly and visa-free destinations. Travel agencies report a shift towards immersive holiday experiences, moving away from traditional getaways.
With Eid expected at the end of March or early April, residents are likely to enjoy a four-day break, leading to a surge in outbound travel bookings.
Outbound Travel Outpaces Local Holidays
According to industry insights:
- Nearly 60 percent of UAE travelers are opting for international trips.
- Around 40 to 45 percent are choosing inbound travel to host family and friends for local Eid celebrations.
Trending Destinations: Visa-Free and Affordable Travel in Demand
Travel experts highlight an increasing preference for destinations that offer cultural experiences, adventure tourism, and affordability.
"Post-COVID, we have witnessed a steady 20 to 25 percent annual growth in travel demand. Travel has become an essential part of life, as people value experiences and cherish time spent with family and friends," said Raheesh Babu, COO of Musafir.com.
Top trending destinations include:
- Caucasus Region – Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, and Kazakhstan, which offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa options.
- Balkan and European Destinations – Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece remain preferred for cultural and heritage-based tourism.
- Southeast Asia and Africa – Zanzibar, Kenya, and South Africa are gaining popularity for their unique landscapes and rich culinary experiences.
- Cruise Tourism – Luxury cruises in the United States, Europe, and Canada have also seen increased demand.
Group Travel Gains Popularity
Experts note a rising trend in group travel, where families and friends explore destinations together.
"More travelers are choosing heritage-based group travel experiences, wanting to immerse themselves in local traditions and cultures," said Subair Thekepurathvalappil, Senior Manager at Wisefox Tourism.
Rising Travel Costs: Early Bookings Recommended
The growing demand for Eid travel has led to higher prices:
- Airfares on popular routes have surged by 15 to 20 percent.
- Hotel rates have increased by 20 to 30 percent.
As a result, all-inclusive holiday packages are gaining traction as a cost-effective option.
“Even though travel demand has increased, travelers are now more mindful of their budgets. This has led to a rise in group travel and budget-friendly destinations,” added Raheesh Babu.
Plan Ahead for Visa-Dependent Destinations
While many travelers are opting for visa-free destinations, others are planning in advance for visa-dependent locations such as Europe and Japan.
“For destinations like Russia, China, Kenya, Zanzibar, Indonesia, and Singapore, visa processing takes about a week. It is best to apply at least 12 days before Eid to avoid delays,” advised Subair.
With Eid Al Fitr around the corner, UAE residents are prioritizing affordable, experience-driven travel. Whether it is cultural heritage, nature-based retreats, or adventure tourism, the key to a smooth holiday is early planning and smart budgeting.
