With the occasion of Eid Al Fitr 2024 around the corner, residents are increasingly demonstrating the interest in travel during the long holiday, particularly for short-haul and visa-free destinations.
According to Skyscanner, Here are the top 10 trending destinations for UAE residents:
1. Kazakhstan
Many UAE residents pick destinations like Kazakhstan which offers relatively easy travel arrangements. The country saw a 195 percent increase year-on-year for searches during April on Skyscanner.
There are direct flights connecting major cities in the UAE, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, to Astana and Almaty. The visa requirements for UAE citizens visiting Kazakhstan are straightforward, making it convenient for travel planning.
2. Seychelles
Being a visa-free country for UAE residents makes Seychelles an ideal option for those looking for a quick Eid getaway.
The island is a brief 4 and a half hour flight from Dubai and has seen a 115 percent increase in search interest year-on-year for the month of April, topping the list for the trending Eid Al Fitr travel destinations this year after Kazakhstan.
3. Cyprus
Cyprus emerged as a popular destination for UAE residents during the Eid Al Fitr holiday. The destination has witnessed an increase of 99 percent in searches for this period as compared to last year, according to Skyscanner.
The country is easily accessible from the UAE, with regular flights connecting major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Larnaca and Paphos airports.
The flight duration is relatively short, making it a convenient travel destination for UAE residents looking for a quick getaway.
4. Japan
Accessible through hassle-free e-visas and with easy accessibility from the UAE with direct and connecting flights, Japan took a spot in the top five among the most popular destinations this April.
Search rates witnessed a 90 percent increase demonstrating an increasing interest from UAE residents as compared to the same period last year.
5. Vietnam
Vietnam is known for being a relatively affordable travel destination, offering good value for money. Accommodation, dining, and transportation options cater to a range of budgets.
Accessible through direct flights from the UAE, the country emerged as a top destination choice for residents witnessing an 81 percent increase in searches as compared to the same period in 2023.
6. Oman
With the shortest travel time among all the trending destinations this year, Oman witnessed a 78 percent increase in searches among UAE residents looking for a short break this Eid Al Fitr.
It is easily accessible by road or air, with short travel distances. UAE residents can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, dune bashing, and snorkeling, among others.
7. Switzerland
Switzerland saw a 56 percent increase in interest from UAE residents as compared to the same period in 2023. Offering relatively contrasting weather, the country saw increasing searches during the month of April.
Easily accessible by flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi via Emirates or Etihad, the country made it to the top searched travel destinations this year.
8. Kenya
Kenya’s Nairobi and Mombasa are located a short five-hour flight away from the UAE, the country also offers hassle-free entry which makes it a top destination for those looking to travel during the long Eid Al Fitr weekend.
The country witnessed a 53 percent increase in searches among UAE residents for the month of April, as compared to the same period last year.
9. Mauritius
Easily accessible from the UAE, The Island of Mauritius is located approximately seven hours away by flight. The destination witnessed a 52 percent increase in searches among UAE residents for the Eid Al Fitr period.
The island offers tropical tourism where UAE residents can engage in water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Destinations like Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare, and Le Morne are popular for their beaches.
10. Greece
Athens is accessible via a short five-hour flight, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a quick getaway. Greece saw a 49 percent increase in searches by UAE residents during the April period.
Greece is famous for its islands and beaches. From the iconic Santorini with its white-washed buildings to the popular tourism spot of Mykonos.
“The majority of UAE travellers we surveyed are keen to make the most of their holidays with breaks to 2 weeks long. We’ve also witnessed a significant year-on-year increase in search destinations such as Kazakhstan, Seychelles and Cyprus as residents look to more culture-focused travel, as well as relaxed holiday destinations this Eid Al Fitr break,” said Skyscanner’s Travel Expert, Ayoub El Mamoun.