What matters most to Gen Z travellers in the UAE

Dubai: Gen Z in the UAE isn’t just travelling — they’re tailoring every trip to reflect who they are, what they care about, and how they want to experience the world. For this generation, it’s not about five-star indulgence or packaged tours. It’s about value, vibe, and purpose.

According to research commissioned by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, young UAE residents are all about making travel meaningful — and tech-enabled. Nearly 80% say they already use or want to use AI tools to plan their trips. Social media plays a big role too, with 1 in 4 saying platforms like Instagram and TikTok influence how they choose where to go and what to do.

Gen Z’s top reason for travelling? To unplug and recharge. But a close second is a thirst for cultural discovery and adventure — experiences that go deeper than just sightseeing. Instead of chasing luxury, they’re seeking stories. Authentic ones.

They’re skipping the status traps and leaning into immersive getaways that offer a sense of connection — whether that’s through local design, community experiences, or a new way of seeing the world.

More than half of Gen Z women in the UAE travelled internationally in the past six months — that’s 20% more than their male peers. But they’re doing it with intention: 51% said safety is a top consideration when planning a trip. This is a generation of confident, independent travellers who also know how to set boundaries.

Forget the old stereotype that travel is only for the wealthy. Even students and entry-level earners (AED 5,000–10,000) are making room for international trips. In fact, 41% of them have already travelled abroad recently, while another 25% combined it with domestic travel.

Gen Z is choosing experiences over stuff. They’re happy to skip shopping sprees or limit luxury buys if it means affording a meaningful getaway. And they’re making savvy decisions — favouring flexible, loyalty-backed bookings over flash and flair.

Almost two-thirds of young travellers in the UAE say they prefer accommodation that reflects local culture — whether through food, design, or curated local experiences. For them, travel isn’t just about seeing a place — it’s about feeling it.

Sustainability matters. Over half say they actively opt for greener transport choices, and 1 in 3 seek out eco-conscious stays. This generation is thinking long-term — about their memories and the planet.

For Gen Z in the UAE, travel is no longer a luxury. It’s a life priority — one that’s intentional, tech-driven, and deeply personal. They’re not just chasing destinations. They’re chasing meaning.