UAE travellers are being even more money-conscious this Fall season, compared to previous periods, reports Expedia – one of the world’s leading full-service travel brands. 

 

Residents who searched between the latter half of October and mid-November reportedly saved close to 45% compared to more expensive dates this season. These savings are due to be spent on top destinations, held strongly by London2 with searches doubling in percentages compared to the same period last year, the report said.

 

On the domestic front, residents are flocking to the Northern Emirates, drawn by cooler temperatures and the desire to escape the hustle and bustle of the familiar Dubai and Abu Dhabi spots. Ras Al Khaimah recorded an impressive 85% increase2 in searches compared to last fall thanks in part to its high-profile Guinness World Record celebration during the New Year. The emirate continues to captivate visitors with its fresh offerings, such as the Maldives-inspired Anantara Mina Al Arab, set against the stunning backdrop of the Hajar Mountains and nestled within 1.5 km of serene mangrove lagoons, it said. 

 

Residents continued to take advantage of simpler visa processes with places such as Baku leading to a surge of 105%  in searches compared to last year2. This underscores the ongoing appeal of cities that offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry, making them top choices for local travellers seeking ease and convenience. 

 

Beyond cityscapes 

The report also recorded an increase in searches in international hotspots such as Paris (20%), New York (35%) and Singapore (60%), as residents continue to explore these fan-favourite destinations from season to season.

 

Beach destinations such as Ibiza, Pattaya and Mykonos are expected to have a higher influx of UAE residents, according to Expedia’s Fall Report. With the appeal that these places offer that cater to various age groups, through their serene beaches, exhilarating nightlife events and more, these destinations are a perfect fit for the Fall and have led searches with approximately over 160%.

Surprising contenders for UAE residents this fall season are venues with long-haul flights including Chicago and Boston. Known for their impeccable culinary scenes, both destinations show a growing trend of travellers embracing cooler climates, with an average temperature of 4 deg C during November, a stark contrast compared to domestic temperatures during the same month.

 

Dates still matter

For many destinations, it’s “shoulder season,” the sweet spot between tourist high season and seasonal low season when the weather is pleasant, the crowds have dispersed, and travel is more wallet-friendly

 

“Summer sun escapes are a firm fixture on UAE calendars, but shoulder season should be about spontaneity if you want to save hundreds on your trip,” says Melanie Fish, Expedia Group Brands spokesperson. “Other Fall savings tips include booking two weeks out which can save on average $158. The best flight deals are showing from 13 – 22 October and to avoid the hotel crowds, plan a break on 29 and 31 December.”

 

Best and busiest times 

UAE residents are opting for cheaper dates this Fall season as they explore international hotspots such as London, Tokyo and others.

• For the best deals, travellers should look to book their flights at least a month before travel, saving them on average $674 compared to booking flights during the last week of September. 

• Expedia reported that on 25 September recorded the busiest booking window during this season, where travellers who booked just a day after avoided 360% of the booking window and traffic, to find more flight options which ideally would result in a cheaper flight. 

 

Cheapest time to travel 

• Thursdays are the least expensive day for hotel stays this fall. While 29 to 31 October are the quietest dates for hotel stays, compared to 29 September and 15 November clocking the busiest days that travellers are looking to check in. 

• The report also notes that those who booked their flights on 13, 18 or 22 October slashed the prices in half as opposed to different dates from the same month with over 30% higher rates.

• Residents targeted dates between 29 and 31 October when average daily rates are 75% cheaper per night, compared to stays booked during late September and early October.   -TradeArabia News Service