With the UAE National Day holidays approaching, residents are already making travel plans, with some agencies seeing a rise of up to 35 percent in bookings compared to last year. Online travel agency Musafir.com has reported noticeable changes in booking habits.
“As customers are eager to travel, local tourism businesses are preparing to meet various preferences, offering everything from all-inclusive relaxation packages to exciting theme park adventures,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of Musafir.com.
His comments were echoed by other agencies in Dubai. “Last year, we had 600 spots booked for National Day, but this year we have about 870,” said Safeer Mahamood, general manager at Smart Travels. “We also offer customized packages, so we’re seeing a 30 to 35 percent increase in bookings compared to last year.”
This year’s National Day holiday will be extended. December 2 and 3 fall on Monday and Tuesday, giving a long four-day break when combined with the weekend.
According to research from Musafir.com, many travelers are moving away from last-minute plans and are now choosing to book in advance. Currently, 30 percent of travelers are considering destinations that require visas, showing a growing awareness of the advantages of planning ahead.
“We advise everyone to book early, especially for popular places like Europe, America, Japan, and South Africa, where visas require early arrangements,” said Rahees.
“For Schengen visas and group trips to Switzerland, Paris, Italy, and Latvia, we recommend planning six to eight weeks ahead for a smoother travel experience.”
Popular Destinations and Unique Experiences
More travelers are seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations, according to Safeer. “People want more than just the typical tourist packages,” he said.
He noted that many are opting to travel to the Far East, Maldives, and European countries. “Even when visiting these places, they seek special experiences. For example, when going to Malaysia, they explore areas like Penang and Langkawi rather than just the cities,” he explained.
Rahees also commented on this trend, stating that about 30 percent of travelers are looking for unique experiences that make their trips stand out. “An increased interest in places like Tunisia and Morocco shows a desire for authentic experiences that let travelers engage with local cultures and traditions,” he added.
Safeer mentioned that a decline in ticket prices has contributed to this shift. “In the past, tickets to Southeast Asia and the Maldives were quite pricey. Now, budget airlines like Whizz Air and Air Arabia offer more affordable fares, making these destinations more accessible.”
Long vs Short Trips
Longer vacations are becoming more popular, with over 65 percent of travelers choosing extended five to seven-day trips that allow for deeper exploration, according to Rahees.
He highlighted popular long break choices like Paris, Rome, Lisbon, and Budapest. Many travelers are also booking combination packages, such as Switzerland-Paris or Switzerland-Italy.
For shorter getaways, travelers are heading to nearby locations like Georgia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, the Maldives, and Azerbaijan. “These quick trips let travelers recharge while experiencing new cultures and landscapes, making them ideal for families and professionals,” Rahees explained.
