What UAE travellers want for Eid Al Adha, summer break: Longer holidays, earlier booking

Dubai: UAE residents are demonstrating a strong desire for extended, experience-driven international holidays for Eid Al Adha and the upcoming summer break, with a 40 per cent surge in Eid holiday inquiries compared to 2024, according to musafir.com. The online travel agency said this trend signals a growing appetite for premium, curated escapes.

“This year’s Eid travel trends reflect a deeper shift in how UAE residents view holidays — they want more than just a break; they’re looking for experiences,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. “We’re seeing demand split between bucket-list Europe trips and affordable, family-friendly Asian escapes — a clear sign that customers are prioritising value and meaning.”

He added, “While family-friendly and cultural experiences continue to lead the way, there’s also a noticeable rise in travellers seeking city vibes, retail therapy, and affordable luxury, especially in urban destinations across the Far East and Europe.”

Another notable trend is the increasing interest in “detour destinations,” according to Expedia’s Unpack ’25 report. UAE travellers seek less crowded gems, such as Abu Dhabi as an alternative to Dubai and Reims as a detour from Paris.

This reflects a desire for more unique and authentic experiences away from the usual tourist hotspots. Other trending detour destinations include Brescia (near Milan), Cozumel (near Cancun), and Girona (near Barcelona). According to Expedia, 49 per cent of UAE travellers will likely visit a “Detour Destination” on their next trip.

European getaways are highly favoured, with Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany, Latvia, and Budapest attracting significant interest due to their cooler climates, said travel agencies. These destinations and Japan are prime choices for once-in-a-lifetime holidays, ideal for travellers seeking to tick off bucket-list experiences.

The longer flight times and higher investment associated with these destinations drive travellers to opt for extended eight to ten-day itineraries, often combining multiple cities.

Shorter-haul destinations in the Far East, including Thailand, Bali, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong, remain popular, particularly among families travelling with children. “These destinations offer a mix of beachside relaxation, vibrant city life, family-friendly attractions, and affordable luxury, making them well-suited for three to five-day Eid breaks,” said Babu.

Emerging hotspots

Several emerging destinations are also capturing the attention of UAE travellers. With its visa-free access and stunning landscapes, Georgia remains a favourite for its blend of history, nature, and adventure. Azerbaijan, known as the “Land of Fire,” is gaining popularity due to its proximity and ease of travel. Other destinations like Uzbekistan, with its Silk Road cities, and Morocco, offering a mix of culture and adventure, are also rising.

Travelers also seek unique experiences, driven by a desire to witness natural phenomena and engage in immersive activities. The Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland, remain a top draw, while others are expressing interest in events like Japan’s cherry blossoms season.