The UAE’s travel and tourism industry is seeing a major boost as cooler weather lasts longer, making it an ideal destination for visitors.
This extended pleasant season is encouraging both international tourists and local residents to explore more, leading to a rise in travel and staycations.
Dubai hotel occupancy
Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego, highlighted how winter travel in the region has become stronger than ever this year.
“What we noticed at the end of last year and into January was a clear seasonal trend. Dubai’s hotel occupancy even during Ramadan has remained above 80%, which is unprecedented. With great weather, people are eager to explore new attractions, and Dubai is now a well-established global destination,” he said.
Hmidan also noted that the peak tourist season, which typically lasted until February or March, has now extended into April due to the prolonged cool weather.
Staycations in the UAE
Latest data from Wego, the region’s largest online travel marketplace, shows that UAE residents are increasingly choosing affordable luxury for their staycations during Ramadan.
Four-star hotels are the most popular choice, making up 40.15% of all bookings, as travellers look for a mix of quality and value.
While shedding light on the latest technologies, Hmidan said that the travel industry is changing rapidly due to advancements in technology. One of the biggest game-changers is artificial intelligence (AI), which is helping travel companies improve customer experiences, streamline bookings, and personalize itineraries for travellers.
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AI-powered tools, like chatbots such as ChatGPT, are making trip planning easier and more efficient. These technologies can suggest destinations, recommend activities, and even assist with real-time travel updates. As AI continues to evolve, it will play an even bigger role in shaping the future of travel, making it more convenient and personalized for everyone, he added.
Meanwhile, according to musafir.com, staycations in the UAE are thriving, with destinations like Dubai offering luxury resorts with private pools and theme park access, while Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi attract travellers with nature retreats and beachfront resorts.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
