UAE travellers will get the best deal if they plan holidays for August 30, airports will be especially busy on July 19 and holidays in September will be significantly cheaper.
At least, this is what travel experts at Expedia claim in the Summer Travel Outlook report.
This year’s data shows a significant increase in both domestic and international travel, with July being the most popular and affordable month for domestic trips and August the most expensive for international getaways.
UAE travel tips and hacks
Whether seeking cultural experiences in Europe, adventures in Asia, or the warmth of the MENA region, UAE residents are making the most of their summer vacations this year.
Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations, said: “This summer, UAE travellers are setting their sights on a wide array of experiences, from exploring the vibrant cityscapes of London and New York to unwinding on the pristine beaches of Krabi and Fujairah.
“July is poised to be the peak travel month, with the busiest travel days being July 11 and 19, but if you’re able to plan your holidays in advance, travelling on August 27 or 30 could bag you the best deal.
“Whether it’s a cultural escape to Europe, an adventure in Asia, or a serene staycation within the UAE, bundling flights, hotels, and car rentals on the Expedia app is the best way to maximize savings.”
UAE residents continue to seek the allure of major cities this summer, with London, Istanbul, Paris, Bangkok, and New York topping the list of preferred destinations.
London remains the top hotspot in 2024, experiencing a 35 per cent increase in searches compared to last year.
The culturally vibrant Athens is also gaining popularity, with searches up by 54 per cent, followed by Rome at 16 per cent.
UAE residents are propelled to discover the wonders of Asia this summer, with destinations like Baku and various cities in Thailand luring visitors.
Baku emerges as a rising star with a 70 per cent surge in interest, enticing travellers with its blend of Eastern European and Western Asian influences.
Bangkok, leading the Thai destinations with a 67 per cent increase compared to last year, offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and modern attractions.
Additionally, Thailand’s tropical paradises such as Krabi (215 per cent), Pattaya (155 per cent), and Patong (100 per cent) are gaining popularity.
For picturesque beaches and island escapes, destinations like Marbella, Maldives, Mykonos, Antalya, Bodrum, and the lush-green Bali are positioned as top choices for those seeking coastal, sun-soaked vacations.
Searches show that residents who prefer shorter travel times or are visiting family are opting for Middle East and North Africa hotspots.
Doha, in particular, is becoming a prime destination for hosting global sporting events with a remarkable 430 per cent boost from last year. Saudi Arabia is also experiencing a travel boom, driven by key events and the rise of tourism gems like AlUla.
Trending destinations in the Kingdom also include Medinah and Makkah, each with a 260 per cent increase year-on-year, primarily due to Haj season.
This year, Beirut summer nights are shifting to the Great Alexandria, with a surge in searches to the latter by 70 per cent compared to last year.
Adventure and relaxation seekers alike are headed to Hurghada, with its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life, seeing a 115 per cent increase in interest.
Expedia revealed that domestic tourism has nearly doubled across the UAE, with residents and citizens choosing to explore their own backyard to unwind.
Dubai stays are trending this summer with an 85 per cent increase, while Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are experiencing even higher growth at 110 per cent and 120 per cent, respectively.
Fujairah leads the surge with an impressive 151 per cent increase for its beaches. This trend highlights a growing interest in local tourism and the diverse offerings within the UAE.
For this year’s Summer holidays, running from June 1 to September 1, Expedia has predicted that July is the most popular month for travel, both domestically and internationally.
It is also the most affordable month for domestic travel, with average daily rates (ADR) being approximately AED59 ($16) per night cheaper than in June.
Conversely, August is the most expensive month for international travel, with ADRs $28 (approximately AED103) per night higher than in September.
For those travellers who are flexible on the departure date, Expedia revealed that the quietest days to fly internationally are August 27 and 30, while the busiest dates are July 11 and 19.
Planning travel around these dates can help avoid crowds and ensure a smoother travel experience.
Expedia travel hacks
- Set up flight alerts: Find the right time to book and get notified when flight prices drop with Price Tracking in the Expedia app
- Choose a morning flight: According to Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report, flights departing after 3pm are 50 per cent more susceptible to cancellations than their earlier counterparts, proving it pays to be a morning person
- Reserve a hotel with flexible policies: Use Expedia’s search filters to look for properties offering “free cancellation” or “reserve now, pay later,” and opt for the refundable room
- Bundling: With flights + hotels, Expedia offers customisable holiday packages in one place, allowing travellers to save hundreds of dirhams on average when booking on Expedia. Travellers then also have their itinerary all in one place, making it easier to keep track of their journey
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