UAE staycation bookings have risen 31% year-on-year ahead of the October half-term, with Dubai accounting for 78% of bookings.
UAE staycations lead October half-term travel
UAE residents are increasingly choosing holidays closer to home for the October school break, with staycation bookings up 31% compared with the same period last year, according to booking data from dnata Travel.
The UAE is the most-booked destination among residents for the school holiday period. The trend points to growing demand for shorter breaks that allow families to spend time together without the need for international travel.
Dubai is by far the most popular staycation destination, accounting for 78% of all UAE staycation bookings. Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah follow.
Dubai hotels see strong family demand
Booking patterns show continued demand for hotels close to leisure, entertainment and lifestyle attractions, including properties on Yas Island and Palm Jumeirah.
Beach resorts are also performing strongly, with all-inclusive hotels attracting families looking for convenient holiday options.
Family travel spending is rising alongside demand. The average booking value has increased 6% year-on-year, according to dnata Travel.
Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, said: “The October half-term break remains an important travel period for UAE residents. The sustained popularity of staycations reflects broader shifts in traveller behaviour, with families placing greater value on convenience, flexibility, and meaningful experiences as shorter breaks become an increasingly appealing way to maximise time away.
Overseas travel remains strong
The rise in staycations has not weakened demand for international holidays. Overseas bookings are also ahead of the same period last year.
The Maldives, Spain, France, Thailand and Mauritius are among the most popular international destinations for UAE residents.
Spain has recorded a 65% year-on-year increase in sales, while bookings to the United States are up 6%. France and Japan are also performing ahead of last year’s levels.
Finland is emerging among travellers looking for cooler-weather experiences, while the Maldives, Mauritius and Thailand continue to attract demand for beach holidays.
Ketait said: “Beyond the UAE, we’re seeing strong demand for nearby beach destinations such as the Maldives, Mauritius, and Thailand. These destinations continue to resonate with travellers by offering a compelling combination of accessibility, value, and family appeal. At the same time, social media continues to play a growing role in inspiring destination choices and shaping booking decisions.”
Social media bookings triple
The way UAE residents book holidays is also changing. Bookings through dnata Travel’s retail stores have increased 16% year-on-year, while bookings generated through social media channels have tripled.
The figures suggest that while physical travel stores continue to play a role, social platforms are becoming an increasingly important route from holiday inspiration to booking.
October half-term holiday prices
dnata Travel’s listed October half-term options include UAE and international stays at different price points.
In Dubai, a one-night stay at Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah starts from Dhs 545 per person, including breakfast and a children’s stay-and-eat-free offer for one child up to 11.
In Abu Dhabi, a one-night stay at Yas Plaza Circuit starts from Dhs 545 per person and includes breakfast, theme park access and a stay-and-eat-free offer for two children up to 11.
A one-night stay at Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort in Fujairah starts from Dhs 695 per person, including breakfast.
For international trips, three nights at Hilton Helsinki Strand with breakfast and return flights start from Dhs 4,035 per person. A three-night Maldives package at Sun Siyam Olhuveli starts from Dhs 7,420 per person, while three nights at C Mauritius in Mauritius start from Dhs 6,590 per person, including return flights.
