With Eid holidays fast approaching, many UAE residents are gearing up for family trips. According to musafir.com, a notable shift is underway, as more people opt for family-centred, spontaneous, and experience-focused holidays this year.
Rising Demand for local and international travel
Approximately 60% of travellers are booking trips abroad, while 40-45% are welcoming family and friends to local destinations to celebrate Eid, attracted by the pleasant weather and the unique experiences on offer in the UAE. Many expatriates are also seizing the opportunity to return home, marking Eid as a time for reunions and cultural connections.
The growing demand for travel has resulted in a 30% increase in the popularity of Eid travel packages compared to last year. Whether it’s reuniting with loved ones or exploring new places, Eid is becoming a time for making memories in both familiar and far-off destinations.
Airfares rise by up to 20%
However, this surge in travel has led to higher costs. Airfares for popular routes have risen by 15-20%, while hotel rates have jumped 20-30% during peak travel periods. As a result, all-inclusive packages are becoming an attractive option for many, offering an easy way to manage costs and avoid the stress of planning.
Popular travel destinations
This year, many travellers are looking towards the CIS countries — Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia — which are accessible thanks to visa-on-arrival or e-visa options. Interest is also rising in Europe, with destinations like Switzerland, Italy, Germany, and France gaining popularity. Southeast Asia and African countries, such as Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, South Africa, Kenya, and Zanzibar, are also on the radar, offering rich cultural experiences, affordable luxury, and diverse culinary delights.
Spontaneous travel
While spontaneous travel remains a trend, many are planning ahead for destinations that require visas, such as Europe and Japan. One standout destination this year is Latvia, offering a combination of charm, adventure, and affordable luxury for those seeking a unique European getaway.
Budget-friendly travel
Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com, shared insights on the travel trend: “Eid-Al-Fitr, Eid-Al-Adha, as well as the summer and winter breaks, are peak travel seasons where we see a huge upsurge in outbound travel. People increasingly use these holidays to explore new destinations, a trend that has been growing year after year. Post-COVID, we have witnessed a steady growth of 20-25% annually in travel demand. Travel has become an essential part of life, as people value experiences and cherish time spent with family and friends, creating lifelong memories.”
While demand for travel continues to increase, many are more mindful of their budgets. This has led to a rise in the popularity of affordable destinations and group travel packages, which offer comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. These packages allow families to enjoy stress-free holidays while staying within their financial limits.
Packages for UAE travellers
At musafir.com, exclusive all-inclusive packages tailored to the needs of UAE travellers start at just Dhs 3,199 per person. These packages cover flights, 4- or 5-star accommodations, city tours, and visa assistance, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With easy access to visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa destinations like Turkey, Georgia, and several GCC countries, last-minute travel continues to thrive. The convenience of these options allows UAE residents to plan spontaneous holidays without the usual complications.
As the Eid holidays draw near, the UAE is set to see an exciting wave of travel, whether for family reunions or new adventures, making it the perfect time to explore both local gems and far-flung destinations.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
