UAE staycations surge 31% as families choose Dubai, Abu Dhabi for October half-term break

UAE staycation bookings have surged by 31 percent ahead of the October half-term break, according to dnata Travel. Families are increasingly opting for shorter holidays closer to home, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi emerging as the top destinations for domestic travel. The UAE remains the leading destination booked by residents, accounting for 78 percent of all staycation bookings, followed by Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah.

Dubai continues to dominate with 78 percent of domestic holiday demand, with popular choices including Yas Island, Palm Jumeirah, and beach resorts. Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, noted that the half-term period remains crucial for UAE residents, emphasizing the growing preference for convenient, flexible, and meaningful experiences.

While domestic bookings soar, overseas demand remains strong, with Spain, France, Thailand, and Mauritius seeing significant increases. Dubai families are also drawn to nearby beach destinations like the Maldives, Mauritius, and Thailand, which offer a balance of accessibility, value, and family appeal. The rise in travel demand is reflected in higher booking values, with average family bookings up 6 percent year-on-year and social media playing a more significant role in influencing travel decisions.