UAE residents are preparing for one of the busiest travel periods of the year as winter approaches, with many planning regional escapes and long-haul holidays.
Travel platform Atlys has highlighted the destinations seeing the strongest interest among residents this season.
Short-haul options
Regional destinations remain popular for travellers looking for quick breaks during December and January.
Egypt continues to attract strong demand, with travellers drawn to historic sites such as the Pyramids and Luxor’s temples, as well as Red Sea resorts that offer warm weather during the winter months.
Georgia has also become a preferred choice. Its capital, Tbilisi, offers a mix of old town streets, cafés, and cultural attractions, while nearby mountain areas such as Gudauri provide snow and winter activities within a short flight of the UAE.
Morocco rounds out the top short-haul picks. Travellers are exploring destinations from Marrakech’s souks to the Atlas Mountains and desert landscapes, taking advantage of the country’s cooler winter climate.
Longer winter breaks
Many residents are also opting for extended holidays further afield.
The United Kingdom remains a key destination for those seeking a classic European winter. London’s festive lights, Edinburgh’s seasonal events, and countryside retreats continue to appeal to UAE travellers looking for colder weather and cultural experiences.
Interest in the Schengen Zone is also strong. With a single visa allowing entry to 27 European countries, travellers can visit cities in France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and more. Popular activities include visiting Christmas markets, exploring historic towns, and taking ski trips across the region.
Visa support needs
With expatriates making up close to 80% of the UAE population and representing more than 200 nationalities, visa rules differ widely between travellers. Atlys says this creates challenges for residents planning international trips, particularly during high-demand seasons.
The platform aims to simplify the process by allowing users to check visa requirements, submit paperwork and track applications in one place, helping travellers manage administrative steps more easily.
Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys, said: “The UAE’s population represents one of the world’s most diverse communities, and travel aspirations are equally varied. At Atlys, our mission is to make global travel accessible to everyone, regardless of passport. Winter is a meaningful season when people seek connection, exploration, and celebration. We’re honored to facilitate these moments seamlessly.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
