Travel demand from UAE residents is rising ahead of Eid Al Adha, with new data showing a sharp increase in outbound travel searches as families and groups plan holidays during the upcoming break.
Insights from Skyscanner show a 51% surge in outbound travel searches from the UAE on May 26 compared to the previous week, making it the most active day for travel planning during the Eid period so far. The data points to growing interest in early planning, with travellers comparing options more carefully to balance cost, timing, and convenience.
Travel searches surge
According to the findings, travel interest from the UAE has picked up strongly ahead of the holiday period. The rise in searches reflects a broader shift in behaviour, with residents increasingly focusing on value and flexibility when planning Eid Al Adha trips.
The data suggests that travellers are not only looking for destinations but are also spending more time comparing routes, prices, and travel conditions before finalising bookings.
Family travel
Family travel continues to play a central role in Eid holiday planning among UAE residents. Extended holidays and school breaks are contributing to a rise in group travel, especially for families travelling together across generations.
Previous Skyscanner research shows that 41% of UAE travellers plan to travel with family members, including parents, children, and grandparents.
The trend is particularly visible among younger travellers. The data shows that 51% of Gen Z adults have travelled with their parents in the past two years, while 31% of Millennials have travelled with both their children and parents. In addition, 31% of Gen Z travellers have taken trips involving both parents and grandparents.
The research also highlights that shared experiences remain a key factor influencing travel decisions in the UAE.
About 62% of UAE travellers said that spending quality time together is a main reason for family travel, while 52% said strengthening family bonds is a priority when planning trips.
The findings indicate that Eid travel planning is increasingly shaped by group experiences, with a focus on destinations that support family-friendly activities and easier travel arrangements during peak holiday periods.
