How France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Latvia, Hungary, Japan, and Other Destinations are Capturing the Attention of New UAE Travelers During Eid Al Adha

Saturday, May 10, 2025

As Eid Al Adha approaches, UAE residents have been eagerly planning their holidays, with many opting for European destinations this year. Travel experts have noted a significant shift in the region’s travel patterns, with a 40% rise in inquiries compared to the previous year, reflecting the growing desire for longer and more enriching vacations.

With many travelers looking for cooler climates, iconic landmarks, and immersive cultural experiences, countries such as Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany, Latvia, and Hungary (Budapest) top the list for UAE residents. Additionally, there is an emerging trend toward destinations in the Far East, with Japan seeing increased interest among travelers seeking a unique cultural experience.

This shift is not only about escaping the summer heat but also about creating memorable experiences. According to Raheesh Babu, COO of Musafir.com, the shift towards longer trips is becoming clear. He mentioned, “People are not just looking for a break. They want an experience.” As the demand for multi-destination journeys grows, travelers are looking for vacations that provide both luxury and cultural immersion, significantly impacting how tourism is shaped both regionally and globally.

The Rise of Multi-City European Trips

Travel statistics show that the majority of travelers from the UAE are now planning trips lasting between eight to ten days, enabling them to explore more than one city during their journey. This trend reflects a shift from the typical short getaway to more immersive travel, where visitors can experience the essence of multiple destinations within a short time span. The trend also demonstrates that travelers are increasingly seeking a deeper engagement with the places they visit, making the most of their time away.

The combination of exploring different European cities, known for their historical significance, vibrant cultures, and scenic beauty, makes these longer trips highly appealing. With a range of experiences to offer—from the French Riviera to the snow-capped Swiss Alps—these trips are providing an ideal balance of relaxation, exploration, and cultural discovery. For the global travel industry, this signals an increased demand for longer tours, more flexible itineraries, and cultural engagements that go beyond the traditional sightseeing route.

The Impact on Travel to Southeast Asia and the Far East

While Europe has become the top choice for many UAE residents, destinations in Southeast Asia remain popular for shorter getaways. Countries such as Thailand, Bali, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong continue to attract families with their combination of affordable luxury, vibrant city life, and family-friendly attractions. These destinations offer a convenient mix of beaches, culture, and entertainment, making them ideal for short breaks of three to five days.

The global impact of this preference for Southeast Asia is significant, as these destinations benefit from UAE residents’ affinity for places that are accessible, offer value for money, and provide a range of experiences. The growing popularity of short trips to these regions highlights a shift toward exploring nearby countries with attractive visa policies and affordable travel options.

Family Travel and Gender-Specific Trends

Family travel, which comprises nearly 60% of all bookings, continues to shape the tourism industry in the UAE. Family-oriented destinations like Switzerland and Turkey, which offer diverse activities for all ages, remain highly sought after. In addition to traditional family vacations, there is a noticeable rise in women-only trips, which have increased by 15% from the previous year. This growing trend speaks to the evolving dynamics of travel, where women are seeking both leisure and empowerment through their journeys.

The success of family-focused holidays and gender-specific travel experiences underscores a need for the global tourism industry to cater to diverse traveler preferences. Tailored packages that address specific group needs—whether it’s family-friendly amenities, safety concerns, or empowering experiences for women—will likely continue to thrive in the coming years.

The Role of Budget Travel and Affordable Luxury

As the cost of travel continues to rise, more travelers from the UAE are opting for affordable luxury options. Travel budgets are typically ranging between Dh3,500 to Dh5,500 per person, which signals a growing preference for comfort and culture without the hefty price tag. Tourists are increasingly looking for curated travel packages that combine both luxury and cultural immersion, which are becoming more popular in destinations like Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

These regions offer value-for-money itineraries that cater to travelers seeking an enriching experience without overspending. Fly Dubai, for example, has introduced holiday packages starting at Dh2,249, offering destinations like Krabi, Langkawi, Baku, and Istanbul, making it easier for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy a mix of both cultural and luxurious experiences.

For the global travel industry, this trend of affordable luxury is highly relevant. It indicates that travelers are no longer exclusively choosing between budget options or high-end experiences; instead, they are looking for the sweet spot where both can be enjoyed simultaneously. Travel providers will need to focus on offering experiences that blend comfort, culture, and value, appealing to the growing demand for curated yet affordable luxury experiences.

Emerging Travel Destinations and Their Global Impact

One of the most notable trends in travel this year is the rise of emerging destinations. Countries like Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan have gained significant traction for their natural beauty, cultural depth, and visa-friendly policies. These destinations, all within four hours of travel from the UAE, offer scenic landscapes and authentic cultural experiences at an affordable price point.

According to David Ganji, managing director of The Holidave Travel, these destinations are becoming increasingly popular due to their easy visa processes and cultural richness, which attract tourists seeking meaningful travel experiences. Georgia has long been a favorite, with its picturesque mountains and vibrant cities, while Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan offer breathtaking summer landscapes and authentic nomadic experiences, now easily accessible with visa on arrival policies.

This shift toward exploring emerging destinations signals a broader trend in global tourism: a desire for authenticity, uniqueness, and ease of access. These regions, often overlooked in favor of more traditional destinations, are carving out a niche for travelers who want to experience something new and meaningful.

The Changing Dynamics of Last-Minute Travel

Interestingly, the data shows that more travelers are planning their trips earlier, with 60% of bookings made three to five weeks in advance. This shift is largely due to the rising cost of airfares, which has made last-minute travel increasingly difficult and expensive. Popular destinations like the UK, India, Southeast Asia, and Europe are seeing travelers making earlier bookings to secure the best prices and avoid high costs.

For the travel industry, this trend emphasizes the importance of early promotions and the need to provide flexible booking options. With travelers becoming more cost-conscious, offering deals that incentivize early booking will be key in securing long-term customer loyalty.

The Rise of Domestic Staycations

As travel costs rise, domestic staycations have also gained popularity, particularly among families who seek a break without stretching their budgets. UAE hotels are expecting near-full occupancy during the Eid Al Adha period, as residents opt for local holidays before the peak summer season. For the global tourism industry, this rise in domestic travel highlights the changing priorities of travelers who are increasingly balancing international trips with local getaways.

In response, the UAE’s hospitality sector is preparing for a surge in demand, offering staycation packages that combine luxury with the convenience of staying closer to home. This local tourism trend not only supports the domestic economy but also demonstrates how the desire for relaxation and escape from daily life can manifest in both international and local contexts.

Shaping the Future of Global Travel

The rising demand for European destinations, the growth of family travel, and the increasing popularity of affordable luxury reflect broader shifts in the global travel industry. As UAE residents opt for longer, more immersive trips, the impact on tourism providers, destination countries, and airlines is significant. The focus is on offering meaningful experiences that combine culture, comfort, and value.

In the coming years, travelers will continue to seek authentic, enriching experiences, and travel providers will need to adapt by offering curated itineraries that cater to the evolving preferences of tourists. The emerging destinations such as Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan will also play an increasingly important role in diversifying global travel options, offering new frontiers for tourists to explore without the typical challenges of traditional destinations.

The growth of early planning, family-oriented travel, and short trips to Southeast Asia also underscores the increasing need for flexible and cost-effective travel solutions. For the travel industry, understanding these trends will be crucial in designing the next wave of tourism packages that meet the diverse needs of modern travelers. As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, travelers and providers alike will have to adapt, ensuring that global travel remains a dynamic, thriving sector in the years to come.