Skyscanner survey finds 86% of UAE travellers eager to discover lesser-known destinations.
Dubai: UAE travellers are increasingly moving beyond social media-famous destinations in favour of unique and meaningful experiences this summer, with flexibility and personalised itineraries playing a growing role in their travel decisions.
According to new research from Skyscanner, 86 per cent of UAE travellers are keen to visit destinations that feel fresh and different from the locations typically showcased on social media or recommended by friends and family.
The findings suggest an evolution in post-pandemic travel habits, with more travellers prioritising unique and lesser-known destinations over following conventional tourism trends or popular online recommendations.
While traditional holiday destinations continue to draw strong demand, travellers are increasingly turning to tools that help them compare destinations, flight routes and travel costs before making booking decisions.
Ayoub El Mamoun, Travel Expert at Skyscanner, said: “Travellers today are approaching summer travel with a very different mindset. We are seeing people spend more time evaluating their options, seeking greater flexibility and prioritising trips that offer a smoother and more convenient overall experience.”
Although the latest report does not specifically examine travel costs, Skyscanner noted in an earlier study that with living expenses remaining a key concern, travellers in 2026 are planning trips with greater intention — focusing on experiences that align with their interests, priorities and personal definition of value.
This comes as airfares have risen sharply compared with pre-conflict and 2025 levels, driven largely by elevated jet fuel costs.
“Price remains an important consideration, and travellers continue to spend carefully,” the report said. “They are planning with greater purpose, choosing trips that reflect who they are and what matters most to them, while ensuring the cost aligns with their budget and expectations.”
Summer 2026 travel outlook
Skyscanner’s research indicates that demand for summer travel remains robust among UAE residents. Around 30 per cent of travellers have already booked their holidays, while a further 47 per cent are still in the process of planning their trips.
Only 6 per cent of respondents said they do not intend to travel this summer, highlighting continued enthusiasm for leisure travel despite economic pressures.
The findings also point to growing flexibility in travel behaviour. About one-third (33 per cent) of UAE travellers said they are keeping their plans flexible, while 27 per cent reported that their travel dates are still largely dictated by fixed commitments such as school holidays.
At the same time, holiday planning is becoming increasingly complex, with travellers weighing multiple factors including schedules, family and group preferences, flight availability and overall costs before making final decisions.
The survey also highlights the challenges of coordinating travel with others. Nearly 59 per cent of respondents said organising a group holiday is more stressful than moving house, while 33 per cent cited agreeing on a suitable budget as one of the biggest obstacles when travelling with family or friends.
The growing preference for flexibility is also evident in flight-search behaviour. According to Skyscanner, global use of its “Layover Filter” — introduced in March 2026 — rose by 80 per cent between March and June, as travellers increasingly compare routes based on transit times, convenience and overall journey experience.
In the UAE, Abu Dhabi has surpassed Dubai as the most frequently chosen layover airport on the platform since April. Usage peaked in mid-May ahead of the Eid Al Adha holiday period, reflecting travellers’ increasing willingness to consider alternative routing options in pursuit of better travel experiences.
