Travel in 2026 is expected to become more personal and passion-driven for travellers in the UAE, according to the latest Skyscanner Travel Trends report. The study highlights seven key travel trends that show how holiday plans are increasingly influenced by individual interests and hobbies.
Accommodation shapes destinations
The report reveals that accommodation choices are playing a major role in deciding where people travel. About 76% of travellers said they have chosen a destination based mainly on the hotels or places to stay available there, indicating a shift in how trips are planned.
Beauty and wellness tourism grows
More than half of adults in the UAE (55%) have previously purchased beauty or skincare products while travelling abroad, and 45% intend to visit beauty stores or get skincare treatments during their trips in 2026. Additionally, 37% believe beauty-related activities are more affordable abroad than at home, highlighting a growing trend of skincare-fuelled itineraries.
Exploring local supermarkets
Food continues to be a central part of travel, with 83% of travellers often exploring local supermarkets or grocery stores while on holiday. Over half (57%) feel they learn more about a destination’s culture by visiting food aisles, and 44% are eager to try local foods during their trips.
Mountain escapes on the rise
There is a rising interest in alpine destinations throughout the year. According to Skyscanner data, 92% of travellers are considering a summer or autumn mountain trip in 2026, with 31% planning hiking trips. The appeal of clean air and cooler temperatures makes mountain getaways increasingly popular.
Literary travel gains momentum
More than 70% of travellers see reading as an important part of their travel experience, and 78% have considered booking trips inspired by literary works. This trend shows a growing desire to combine travel with personal enrichment through books and storytelling.
Meeting new people through travel
Connecting with others while travelling is also gaining interest. Around 82% of people in the UAE have thought about travelling internationally to meet new people, and 32% are open to meeting individuals from different cultures during their journeys.
Multi-generational family trips
Family travel continues to be important, with 41% of travellers planning to take trips with family members in 2026. This follows a recent trend where 31% of respondents said they travelled with parents or grandparents in the past two years, showing a preference for multi-generational holidays.
Ayoub El Mamoun, Travel Expert at Skyscanner, commented: “As 2025 comes to a close, people are already exploring where to visit next year. Our findings from Skyscanner’s annual Travel Trends Report have shown people are opting for different experiences based on their personal interests and hobbies, doing tasks that appeal to them or their families.
From shopping for beauty products, reading a book or enjoying time with your family, there are different ways that travellers in the UAE are enjoying holidays, and they can now plan their trips with greater purpose.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
