Almost half of UAE travellers are still planning their summer holidays, highlighting a shift towards more flexible and last-minute travel decisions, according to new research released by Skyscanner.
The study found that while 30% of travellers in the UAE have already booked their summer trips, 47% are still actively considering their travel plans. Only 6% said they do not intend to travel this summer.
The findings suggest that holiday planning is becoming more dynamic, with travellers taking longer to finalise decisions as they weigh factors such as convenience, flexibility, route options and travel logistics.
Flexible planning
According to Skyscanner, planning a holiday now involves more than simply choosing a destination. Travellers are increasingly comparing flight routes, coordinating schedules with family and friends, balancing budgets and evaluating different travel options before making bookings.
The research showed that 33% of UAE travellers remain flexible about their travel plans this summer, while 27% said their travel dates are still influenced by school holidays or other fixed commitments.
This growing preference for flexibility is also shaping expectations from travel platforms, with travellers seeking tools that simplify planning and help them make informed decisions.
Layover preferences
Skyscanner said demand for features that allow travellers to compare route options has grown in recent months.
One example is the company’s Layover Filter, launched in March 2026, which enables users to compare flights based on transit times and layover preferences. The company said global usage of the feature has continued to increase since its introduction.
The data also showed changing transit patterns in the region. Since April, Abu Dhabi has become the most frequently selected layover airport on the platform, overtaking Dubai. Usage reached its highest level in mid-May ahead of the Eid Al Adha holiday period.
While travellers in some countries are increasingly choosing direct flights, users in markets including the UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to show interest in comparing different transit options when planning their journeys.
Group travel challenges
The research highlighted the challenges many travellers face when organising holidays with family and friends.
Nearly 59% of respondents said planning a group trip is more stressful than moving house. Budget disagreements remain a major issue, with 33% saying finding a spending level that suits everyone is one of the biggest obstacles when travelling as a group.
To address these challenges, travellers are increasingly using platforms that combine flight, accommodation and car hire comparisons in one place, making it easier to coordinate plans and compare costs.
Search for experiences
The report also found that travellers are placing greater emphasis on discovering new destinations and unique experiences.
According to the research, 86% of UAE travellers are interested in visiting places that feel different from destinations commonly seen on social media or frequently visited by people in their social circles.
The trend reflects a growing preference for personalised travel experiences, where travellers are willing to explore alternative destinations rather than follow traditional travel patterns.
Tools such as destination discovery features are also helping travellers identify new options when their travel dates or destinations remain flexible.
Industry perspective
Ayoub El Mamoun, Travel Expert at Skyscanner, said: “Travellers today are approaching summer travel with a very different mindset. We’re seeing people spend more time comparing options, looking for greater flexibility and prioritising journeys that feel smoother and easier to navigate overall.
“The role of travel platforms is no longer just about helping people book flights — it’s about helping travellers plan with more clarity and confidence throughout the entire experience. Whether that’s comparing routes, managing layovers, finding the right stay or coordinating group trips, travellers increasingly want tools that simplify the process and help them make more informed decisions.”
Skyscanner advised travellers to stay updated with UAE government travel guidance before departing for their summer holidays.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
