UAE residents are booking staycations at a significantly higher rate this October half-term, with dnata Travel recording a 31 per cent year-on-year increase in domestic holiday bookings ahead of the school break.
The UAE ranks as the top destination among residents for the period. Within the country, Dubai accounts for 78 per cent of all staycation bookings, followed by Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah.
“The October half-term break remains an important travel period for UAE residents. The sustained popularity of staycations reflects broader shifts in traveller behaviour, with families placing greater value on convenience, flexibility, and meaningful experiences as shorter breaks become an increasingly appealing way to maximise time away. Beyond the UAE, we’re seeing strong demand for nearby beach destinations such as the Maldives, Mauritius, and Thailand. These destinations continue to resonate with travellers by offering a compelling combination of accessibility, value, and family appeal. At the same time, social media continues to play a growing role in inspiring destination choices and shaping booking decisions,” Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel said in a statement.
Demand is concentrated around hotels offering access to leisure and entertainment, with properties on Yas Island and Palm Jumeirah among the most popular. All-inclusive beach resorts are also performing well, particularly among families looking for a contained, straightforward break.
International travel is also tracking ahead of the same period last year. Spain has seen the sharpest jump, with sales up 65 per cent year-on-year. Demand for the United States is up 6 per cent, while France and Japan are also running well ahead of last year’s figures.
Finland is an emerging destination, with enquiries rising among travellers looking for cooler-weather experiences. The Maldives, Mauritius, and Thailand remain the most popular overseas choices overall.
Average booking values have risen 6 per cent year-on-year. Retail store bookings are up 16 per cent, and bookings generated through social media have tripled compared to the same period last year.
