Brief
UAE staycation bookings jump 31% as families favor Dubai and Abu Dhabi for October half‑term
Dnata Travel data show a 31% rise in domestic holiday bookings, with Dubai leading and overseas demand also strong.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Dnata Travel, the Emirates Group‑owned travel company, said UAE residents booked 31% more staycations for the October half‑term, with Dubai capturing 78% of domestic bookings, followed by Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah.
What happened
The latest booking data show a surge in family travel within the UAE, while overseas demand remains robust for destinations such as the Maldives, Spain, France, Thailand and Mauritius. Beach resorts and all‑inclusive properties are popular, and bookings through dnata’s retail stores rose 16% year‑on‑year.
What the reports add
Gulf News noted that Spain saw a 65% year‑on‑year increase in sales, the US demand rose 6%, and interest in cooler‑weather spots like Finland is emerging. Social‑media‑driven bookings have tripled compared with last year.
What was said
Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, told Gulf News that families value “convenience, flexibility, and meaningful experiences” and that nearby beach destinations continue to resonate because of “accessibility, value, and family appeal.”
How it came about
The rise follows a busy cultural calendar in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including events such as K‑Fest, university fairs and Pinktober, which have kept the emirates in the public eye and may have boosted domestic travel interest.
Key facts
- UAE staycation bookings increased 31% for the October half‑term. (gulfnews.com)
- Dubai accounted for 78% of all domestic staycation bookings. (gulfnews.com)
- Average family booking values rose 6% year‑on‑year. (gulfnews.com)
- Bookings made through social‑media channels tripled versus last year. (gulfnews.com)
- Spain saw a 65% year‑on‑year increase in sales for UAE travellers. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “UAE Staycations Soar 31% as Families Opt for Dubai and Abu Dhabi During October Half-Term”
