Dubai Captures 78% of UAE Staycation Reservations as Overseas Travel Demand Holds Firm.
Dubai: Staycation bookings across the UAE have increased by 31 per cent compared to the same period last year, as more families opt for short domestic getaways during the upcoming October half-term school holidays.
Travel services provider dnata Travel announced the increase on Thursday, just ahead of the school break, highlighting a growing preference among UAE residents for convenient holidays closer to home.
According to the Emirates Group-owned travel company, the UAE has emerged as the most-booked destination among residents for the October school holiday period. However, international travel continues to attract considerable interest, with the Maldives, Spain, France, Thailand and Mauritius among the popular overseas destinations.
Recent booking figures released by dnata Travel reveal that Dubai accounts for 78 per cent of all domestic staycation reservations, making it the leading destination for local holidays. Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah follow as other preferred choices for residents planning short breaks.
Dubai Dominates Domestic Holiday Bookings
The latest travel trends indicate strong demand for hotels and resorts located near popular entertainment, leisure and lifestyle attractions.
Properties on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island are among the preferred accommodation options, particularly for families seeking convenient access to recreational activities.
Beachfront resorts are also attracting significant interest, while all-inclusive hotel packages remain appealing to travellers looking for comfortable, hassle-free and affordable family holidays.
Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, highlighted the importance of the October half-term period for the country’s tourism and travel sector.
She explained that the continued growth in staycation bookings reflects changing travel preferences, with families increasingly prioritising convenience, flexibility and memorable experiences.
According to Ketait, shorter holidays are becoming more attractive because they allow travellers to make the most of their available time without the additional planning often associated with longer trips.
International Travel Demand Remains Strong
Despite the notable increase in domestic holiday bookings, UAE residents continue to show considerable interest in travelling abroad during the October school holidays.
Spain has recorded a 65 per cent year-on-year increase in travel sales, while bookings for the United States have risen by 6 per cent.
France and Japan are also experiencing stronger demand compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, Finland is attracting growing enquiries from travellers interested in exploring destinations with cooler temperatures.
Ketait noted that nearby tropical and beach destinations continue to be especially popular among families travelling from the UAE.
She identified the Maldives, Mauritius and Thailand as destinations attracting strong interest because of their convenient accessibility, competitive holiday offerings and family-friendly experiences.
These destinations continue to appeal to travellers seeking a combination of relaxation, enjoyable activities and value for money.
Ketait also pointed to the increasing influence of social media on travel preferences, explaining that digital platforms are playing a greater role in inspiring destination choices and shaping how travellers research and book their holidays.
Travel Spending and Booking Values Increase
The growing demand for domestic and international holidays is also contributing to higher travel spending among UAE residents.
According to dnata Travel, average family booking values have increased by 6 per cent year-on-year, indicating a rise in the amount families are spending on their holiday arrangements.
Meanwhile, bookings completed through dnata Travel’s physical retail outlets have recorded a 16 per cent increase compared to the previous year.
Digital platforms are also playing an increasingly important role in travel reservations, with bookings originating from social media channels tripling year-on-year.
The sharp rise highlights the growing influence of social media in helping travellers discover holiday destinations, explore accommodation options and make booking decisions.
Attractive October Half-Term Holiday Packages
To cater to the increased demand during the October school holidays, dnata Travel has introduced a selection of staycation and international holiday packages for families.
Among the domestic offers is a one-night stay at the five-star Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, with prices starting from Dh545 per person. The package includes breakfast, while one child aged 11 or below can stay and dine free of charge.
Families planning a getaway to Abu Dhabi can consider a one-night stay at Yas Plaza Circuit, available from Dh545 per person. The offer includes breakfast and access to a theme park, with complimentary accommodation and meals for up to two children aged 11 or younger.
For those looking to enjoy a relaxing beachfront escape, Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort in Fujairah offers one-night stays starting from Dh695 per person.
Travellers interested in international destinations can also explore several holiday packages offered by dnata Travel.
A three-night getaway to Helsinki, Finland, including return flights, starts from Dh4,035 per person.
For a tropical island holiday, a three-night package to the Maldives is available from Dh7,420 per person, while a similar three-night holiday in Mauritius starts from Dh6,590 per person.
These packages provide UAE residents with a range of options for enjoying the October half-term break, whether they prefer a short staycation within the country or an overseas holiday.
