As the long weekend break for Eid Al Etihad approaches, dnata Travel has revealed the most popular holiday hotspots for 2024.
In order of popularity, the top five most booked international destinations with UAE travellers are Thailand, Maldives, UK, Sri Lanka, and Turkey.
dnata Travel’s popular holiday destinations
Thailand continues as the favourite international holiday destination, maintaining its top spot from last year’s Eid Al Etihad weekend. Sri Lanka is a standout new entry, as bookings almost double in volume compared to the same period last year.
So far, 85% of all bookings are for international travel, while the remaining 15% are for UAE staycations. Consistent with typical trends, staycations are booked closer to holiday date, therefore this balance may switch more towards staycations and regional stays as November progresses. This year, Ras Al Khaimah is popular for staycations, thanks to an ever-increasing range of new or fully reimagined hotels offering unique experiences.
Sri Lanka
Matthew Vlemmiks, dnata Travel Leisure Manager, commented: “Sri Lanka has always been popular in this market and is firmly back on the map for Eid Al Etihad 2024. With a short flight time and excellent value, both in the air and on the ground, the country appeals to travellers with its diverse offerings including natural landscapes, wildlife spotting, picturesque beaches, historic landmarks, and incredible food.
Thailand
“Thailand remains in demand with direct flights to Bangkok, Phuket and Krabi, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing beach weekend or an action-packed city break. The Maldives and Turkey also attract holidaymakers with shorter flight times, a wide range of resorts, and family-friendly activities.
“While the UK sees a lot of air traffic from residents of the UAE visiting loved ones, it is also in high demand at this time of the year with tourists seeking a festive feel and world-class shopping.”
Across the wider winter months, dnata Travel experts report a growing interest in more adventurous, multi-destination itineraries.
Popular choices include European winter markets, Northern Light excursions, and classic ski trips. Demand is also rising for dnata Travel’s all-inclusive packages which simplify trip planning by covering activities, ski passes and après-ski – all tailored to travellers’ preferences.
Japan and Vietnam
New for 2024, culturally rich itineraries across Japan and Vietnam are trending, with both destinations accessible via direct flights. Additionally, winter sun escapes to the Indian Ocean remain in high demand, with the Maldives and Seychelles continuing to perform well.
Travellers can explore dnata Travel’s winter offers on the newly enhanced dnataTravel.com website, offering savings and added extras across trending winter sun, winter snow, and all-inclusive holidays.
Top offers include a stay in the trending destination of Sri Lanka at the 5-star Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in a Premier Beach Access Room with daily breakfast and 25% savings on a travellers’ stay. In the ever-popular Maldives, travellers can stay at the 5-star Kandima Maldives with 40% savings, and complimentary kids stays.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
