Summer travel plans among UAE residents are shifting towards longer stays, wellness retreats, and off-the-beaten-path destinations, according to recent data from musafir.com, a leading regional travel platform.
Emerging travel patterns
The company’s Summer Travel Trends Insights show a move away from traditional quick trips to more personalized and intentional holidays.
Around 35% of travellers are opting for extended stays of a month or more, a trend known as “townsizing,” where smaller towns replace big cities for a slower, cultural experience.
Nearly half of musafir.com users (49%) are choosing less crowded, less explored locations, particularly in Jordan and Morocco, which offer cooler climates during summer.
Other popular areas include Salalah, Abha, Georgia, and Armenia. This reflects growing interest in unique experiences alongside budget considerations.
Staycations and wellness getaways
Local travel remains popular with many residents preferring staycations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia due to their convenience.
Additionally, wellness-oriented “calmcations” that emphasize relaxation, spa treatments, and healthy living are gaining traction, with Bali, Thailand, the Philippines, and Kerala as key destinations.
About 30% of travelers plan to combine work with leisure, taking advantage of cooler locations in Europe and Southeast Asia to maintain productivity while enjoying a change of scenery.
“Travel is no longer just about ticking off destinations — it’s now deeply personal, intentional, and often slower,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com.
“UAE travellers are embracing new styles like ‘townsizing’ and ‘calmcations’, while also turning to more mindful, meaningful holidays.”
Babu added, “2025 travel is less about location and more about experience. It’s where curiosity, calm, and customization come together.”
To support these trends, musafir.com has introduced a ‘Summer Savings Spree’ promotion, offering customers Dhs 500 in travel vouchers for their next booking.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
