Family trips accounted for 35% of travel bookings, followed by couples at 15%; groups of friends, 15%; and solo travellers at 12%, said musafir.com, a leading online travel agency in the UAE, that has shared travel trends ahead of the UAE National Day holidays.

Travel bookings have seen a 35% increase compared to same time last year, which it said reflected a growing enthusiasm among travellers eager to explore new destinations.

Key Insights

Changing Booking Demographics

musafir.com’s insights reveal that family trips account for 35% of bookings, followed by couples at 30%, groups of friends at 15%, and solo travellers at 12%. This highlights the diverse travel preferences among different groups.

Shift in Booking Behaviour

In terms of booking behaviour, while the UAE market traditionally leans towards last-minute travel arrangements, there has been a noticeable shift. Currently, 30% are planning ahead, particularly for destinations requiring visas, signalling a growing awareness of the benefits of early bookings.

Longer Itineraries on the Rise

65% of travellers are opting for immersive five- to seven-day itineraries, allowing for quality time with family and a deeper exploration of destinations. This trend reflects a desire for meaningful travel experiences and the opportunity to engage with new cultures.

Destinations in Demand for Longer Itineraries

Popular choices include iconic cities like Paris, known for its art and culture; Rome, where history meets gastronomy; and scenic locations such as Lisbon and Budapest.

Travellers are particularly excited about combo packages, such as Switzerland- Paris and Switzerland-Italy, offering a seamless blend of cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Latvia is gaining traction for its enchanting landscapes and rich history, particularly its capital, Riga, known for stunning architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Southeast Asia is also popular as travellers explore packages for Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand. These destinations are favoured for their rich cultures and stunning landscapes, allowing for diverse experiences.

Adventure seekers are drawn to South Africa and Japan, known for thrilling activities that create lasting memories.

Popularity of Short Breaks

About 45% of travellers are seeking three- to four-night short breaks to nearby destinations such as Georgia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives and Azerbaijan. These quick getaways allow travellers to recharge while experiencing new cultures and landscapes, making them ideal for families and professionals alike.

Unique Experiences versus Tourist Attractions

While 70% of travellers prefer traditional tourist activities, 30% seek unique experiences that set their trips apart. Growing interest in destinations like Tunisia and Morocco highlights a trend toward authentic encounters, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in local lifestyles and traditions.

Group Departures Gains Traction

Group departure is gaining popularity for many reasons. It provides a more structured and hassle-free experience, with everything from flights and accommodation to guided tours and activities organised in advance.

This can be especially beneficial for travellers who prefer a sense of security and convenience. Additionally, group departures often offer cost savings. By traveling with a group, you can benefit from discounted rates on flights, accommodations, and activities.

Interest in Regional Tourism

Travellers are showing a noticeable increase in interest in neighbouring countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar, which are actively promoting winter tourism through exciting events and festivals.

The upcoming Riyadh Season and cultural festivals in Qatar attract many, while others plan to utilise National Day holidays for Umrah pilgrimages, benefiting from favourable weather conditions and spiritual significance.

Rise in Cruise Tourism

An exciting trend in travel is the significant increase in cruise tourism, with many families opting for all-inclusive cruise packages. Guests choose from two-night or three-night packages that offer local explorations, including journeys between the UAE and Oman.

Travellers can enjoy world-class amenities and entertainment while experiencing the thrill of a once-in-a-lifetime cruise vacation — all at an incredibly affordable price.

Young Travellers Explore Budget Destinations

Notably, younger travellers aged 22-27 years are gravitating towards unique, budget-friendly destinations with packages ranging from AED 2,500 to AED 3,500 per person.

“The feedback from our customers has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com.

“Many are optimistic and excited about their upcoming trips, eager to explore and celebrate. Local tourism businesses are also gearing up to cater to diverse preferences, offering everything from all-inclusive relaxation packages to exhilarating theme park adventures at Warner Bros, Legoland etc.

“Another interesting aspect is the rise in cruise tourism, many families and groups looking for short breaks and staycations choose the all-inclusive cruise packages.”

At musafir.com said that it is committed to providing seamless travel experiences, whether it’s through its all-inclusive packages or its unique curated holiday options.

It said travellers have to plan ahead, especially for popular destinations such as Europe, America, Japan, South Africa etc, where visa requirements may necessitate early arrangements.

For Schengen visas and group departures to Switzerland – Paris – Italy & Latvia, musafir.com guarantees visa appointments, recommending travellers plan six to eight weeks in advance for a smooth travel experience. – TradeArabia News Service