As the UAE prepares for the upcoming National Day celebrations and the winter holidays, travel trends are shifting.
With longer weekends and a growing desire to explore both nearby and international destinations, many residents are booking their trips ahead of time.
The demand for travel is expected to rise in the coming weeks, particularly as families and individuals look to make the most of the extended breaks.
Early bookings for popular destinations
The upcoming holiday period is seeing a significant boost in early bookings for popular destinations. Whether it’s a cultural city escape or a relaxing winter retreat, residents are keen to secure their travel plans before prices rise and availability shrinks.
Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip, noted the increase in early bookings: “Advance bookings for the winter season are already in full swing, with a 56% increase compared to last year. High demand is seen for nearby destinations like Istanbul, Tbilisi, Baku, and Amman, known for their cultural experiences just hours away. This shift shows a growing trend of travellers planning ahead, with 30% opting for destinations that require visas.”
With airfares rising by nearly 11% and round-trip tickets now exceeding Dh2,800, many are making sure to lock in their plans early to avoid paying higher prices. This trend is especially noticeable as the UAE National Day holiday approaches, which falls between December 2 and 3, combined with the weekend. The extended break has led many to plan their trips in advance.
“The UAE National Day holidays spanning four days have encouraged early travel planning among residents,” Pittie added.
The rise in bookings is not limited to nearby destinations; more residents are also choosing to travel to countries that require visas. According to Pittie, 30% of travellers are opting for destinations such as Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, which are known for their rich culture and proximity to the UAE.
As the travel landscape continues to evolve, experts agree that booking ahead is the best way to secure the best deals and avoid last-minute stress. With the holidays just around the corner, residents are increasingly aware of the benefits of early planning, whether for cultural adventures or relaxing getaways.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
