As the summer break and Eid Al Adha approach, travel agencies in the UAE are reporting a marked shift in resident travel preferences — one defined by longer, experience-focused holidays and a notable rise in early bookings.
According to data from online travel agency musafir.com, Eid travel inquiries have surged by over 40 per cent compared to the same period last year. This jump underscores a growing trend among UAE travellers: seeking meaningful, premium holidays that offer more than just relaxation.
“This year’s Eid travel trends reflect a deeper shift in how UAE residents view holidays — they want more than just a break; they’re looking for experiences,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com.
Bucket Lists and Affordable Escapes
Demand appears to be split between high-end European vacations and affordable, family-friendly trips across Asia. Popular short-haul destinations include Thailand, Bali, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong — ideal for 3-to-5-day breaks packed with a balance of city life, beach escapes, and cultural offerings.
Meanwhile, travellers with more flexibility and budget are opting for eight to ten-day itineraries to explore iconic European cities such as Paris, Rome, and Zurich. These longer holidays often involve multi-city routes, driven by the desire to maximise time and investment on long-haul flights.
“While family-friendly and cultural experiences continue to lead the way, we’re also seeing a rise in interest for city escapes and affordable luxury,” added Babu.
The Rise of the “Detour Destination”
A striking trend this year is the rise of so-called “detour destinations”—lesser-known alternatives to popular tourist cities. Expedia’s Unpack ’25 report reveals that nearly 49 per cent of UAE travellers are open to visiting off-the-beaten-path locations.
Rather than opting for Paris, many are looking to Reims, while Brescia is emerging as an alternative to Milan. In the Gulf, some travellers are choosing Abu Dhabi over Dubai for a quieter luxury escape. Other trending detours include Cozumel (near Cancun) and Girona (near Barcelona).
Nature, Culture, and Events in Demand
Destinations offering natural wonders, cultural richness, and unique seasonal events are high on the radar. The Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland, and Japan’s cherry blossom season remain on bucket lists, while Switzerland, France, Germany, and Latvia are being pursued for their cooler climates and scenic landscapes.
Regions such as Georgia, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan continue to rise in popularity, especially with easier visa processes and compelling blends of adventure and tradition. Morocco is also gaining traction, particularly among travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences.
“Travellers are now driven by moments — witnessing rare phenomena, exploring history-rich cities, or enjoying immersive culinary and cultural tours,” said Babu.
Planning Ahead
Another shift noted by agents is the trend toward early bookings, as families look to secure better deals and ensure availability during the busy holiday window. With many schools offering extended breaks during summer and Eid falling in mid-June, travel planners are encouraging early decision-making.
As the UAE’s travel sector enters its fourth consecutive year of growth, industry stakeholders expect this summer to be one of the busiest on record.
