Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are emerging as popular holiday destinations for travellers planning trips in 2026, according to new data from Skyscanner.
The findings show growing interest from markets including Germany, Switzerland, Canada and South Korea, with accommodation playing a key role in travel decisions.
Rising interest in UAE
Skyscanner’s Travel Trends Report 2026 indicates that travellers are increasingly looking beyond well-known destinations in search of places that offer distinctive experiences. The UAE cities have benefited from this shift, supported by strong air connectivity, competitive pricing and a wide range of accommodation options.
In Germany, searches for Sharjah increased by 101 per cent compared to 2024. Skyscanner attributed the rise to the availability of low-cost airlines, as well as the emirate’s cultural attractions, heritage sites and beaches. Sharjah also saw a 99 per cent increase in searches from Switzerland in 2025 compared to the previous year.
Price and access factors
Dubai recorded a 16 per cent drop in flight prices compared to 2024 for Canadian travellers, alongside visa-free entry, contributing to its appeal. Abu Dhabi, meanwhile, emerged as a popular option for travellers from South Korea, with average prices down by 27 per cent in 2025.
The data shows that cost and ease of travel remain important factors for international visitors choosing destinations in the UAE.
Hotels driving choices
Accommodation is increasingly influencing where people choose to travel. According to the report, 76 per cent of travellers selected a destination based solely on accommodation. The trend is especially strong among younger travellers, with 77 per cent of Gen Z and 78 per cent of Millennials citing hotels as a deciding factor.
Separate Skyscanner data showed that Dubai recorded an 89.7 per cent increase in advance hotel redirect bookings compared to 2024. Travellers are also planning longer stays, with the average trip length expected to rise to six days in 2026, up from four days in 2025.
Global demand outlook
The UAE continues to attract travellers from a wide range of markets, including the UK, India, Germany, France, Italy, Turkey, Australia and the Netherlands. Skyscanner data reflects sustained demand, supported by the country’s extensive hotel supply and range of visitor experiences.
Ayoub El Mamoun, Travel Expert at Skyscanner, said: “The UAE has always been a popular choice for international travellers thanks to its warm climate, geographical position with easy flight connectivity, rich culture and entertainment options. Hotels have been at the forefront of this growth, meeting the rising demand and elevating the visitor experience. As people increasingly look at destinations based on accommodation preferences, hotels in the UAE are expanding their offerings with family-friendly facilities and services, strengthening the country as an appealing choice for a getaway.”
