Around 80% of UAE travelers are now seeking “dark sky destinations,” which offer star-filled nights and a serene nocturnal environment. This trend was highlighted by experts at a travel forum in Dubai.
“According to our research, 80% of UAE travelers are looking for darker skies and stargazing experiences,” said Carlo Olejniczak, Vice President and Managing Director for Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) at booking.com, during an interview. “Globally, about two-thirds of travelers have this preference, but the numbers are higher in the UAE. I found this quite surprising.”
Changing Travel Preferences in the UAE
Carlo was speaking during the Skift Global Forum East, held in Dubai on Wednesday. He shared that 53% of UAE travelers prefer traveling to cooler destinations. Additionally, many visitors plan their activities to avoid daytime heat, with 74% favoring nighttime activities and 77% organizing trips in the early morning or evening to limit sun exposure.
Growth of Wellness Travel
Carlo also noted a growing interest in wellness travel among UAE residents. “Three-quarters of UAE travelers are ready to invest in vacations aimed at improving their health and extending their lifespan,” he said. He added that 86% of travelers are open to trying new wellness activities during their trips.
Tech and AI in Travel Planning
Technology is increasingly shaping how UAE residents plan their trips. According to Carlo:
- 85% of travelers use technology to make informed travel decisions.
- 71% rely on AI tools to create personalized itineraries.
- 85% use tech to find less crowded destinations.
Interestingly, 25% of UAE residents prefer to keep lesser-known destinations private by not tagging them on social media.
Booking.com has integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into its trip-planning tools, making it easier for users to find tailored information. “Travelers can ask specific questions, like if a property has charging stations for electric cars or accepts pets. AI will scan property data to give accurate answers,” Carlo explained.
This AI-driven system is currently available in seven European countries and has received positive feedback. Plans are underway to expand its reach globally.
Stay ahead with these exciting UAE travel trends, shaping the future of tourism in the region.
