As New Year's Eve approaches, residents across the United Arab Emirates are gearing up for celebrations, with many choosing to explore the charms of their own country due to escalating airfares and visa processing delays. This surge in local travel interest has led to a significant increase in staycation prices, with rates skyrocketing nearly 300% in some popular destinations.
Ramy Badr, the sales head at Dopamine Travels, reports that hotel rates in Dubai are now ranging between Dh800 and Dh2,000 per night. In Abu Dhabi, the prices vary from Dh600 to Dh1,800, while Ras Al Khaimah offers more economical options, with rates between Dh500 and Dh1,500 per night. Despite the hike, the demand for these local getaways continues to grow as residents seek to make the most of the UAE’s diverse attractions, from the dazzling fireworks at Burj Khalifa to the tranquil mountain views in Jebel Jais.
According to data from Expedia, the popularity of these destinations has seen a staggering increase, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah witnessing booking surges of 130%, 210%, and 295%, respectively, compared to last year. The iconic New Year's Eve celebrations at the Burj Khalifa, in particular, are a major draw for both tourists and residents alike.
Mir Raja Wasim, manager at Galadari International Travel Services, noted that prices in Ras Al Khaimah have increased significantly. "Earlier, room prices were around Dh400. Now, at some resorts, prices have shot up to Dh1,500, and we expect further increases as New Year approaches," he explained.
Raheesh Babu, COO of Musafir.com, highlighted that the rising demand for domestic travel has driven up staycation prices across the UAE. "We have observed a 15% rise in bookings for domestic trips," Babu said. He added that families are particularly drawn to theme parks and cruises, while couples prefer romantic escapes at resorts, and solo travelers opt for peaceful retreats closer to home.
Expedia's Winter Travel Outlook suggests that residents are increasingly drawn to nearby destinations to make the most of their remaining annual leave. "One of the easiest ways to make use of the time is to explore nearby destinations, and the UAE, with its diverse experiences and luxurious options, continues to capture the hearts and minds of travelers," stated Expedia.
The trend toward domestic travel is not only driven by convenience and cost-effectiveness but also by the desire to avoid the hassles of international travel during peak seasons. As families, couples, and solo travelers alike opt for staycations, the rise of glamping and caravan stays further enriches the local travel landscape, offering unique experiences right at home.
As the UAE rings in the New Year, the trend of staycations is expected to continue growing, offering residents a delightful way to celebrate within their own borders while enjoying the country's world-class amenities and natural beauty.
