Where are UAE travellers headed this Eid Al Adha 2025?
Europe leads for luxury; Asia shines for family-focused Eid escapes
DUBAI: As Eid Al Adha 2025 approaches, UAE residents are looking beyond usual getaways.
A sharp 40 percent increase in holiday enquiries reported by travel platform musafir.com signals a decisive shift toward longer, experience-driven escapes. Whether it’s snow-capped Europe or the tropical Far East, travellers are swapping quick breaks for meaningful adventures.
“This year’s Eid travel trends reflect a deeper shift in how UAE residents view holidays – they want more than just a break; they’re looking for experiences,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. “We’re seeing demand split between bucket-list Europe trips and affordable, family-friendly Asian escapes – a clear sign that customers are prioritising value and meaning.”
The surge in bookings also reveals a demographic shift, with family trips making up nearly 60 percent of all bookings. At the same time, women-only group travel is enjoying a 15 percent growth, with more women choosing curated holidays tailored to safety, exploration, and cultural experiences.
Why is Europe the top pick for UAE holidaymakers?
Europe continues to dominate holiday wish lists, with Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany, Latvia, and Hungary leading the way. According to musafir.com, 35–40% of Eid bookings are headed to European destinations. These trips aren’t just about sightseeing – travellers are combining multiple cities and experiences across 8 to 10-day itineraries.
“We’re seeing strong demand for multi-city European itineraries – from scenic Swiss rail journeys to cultural deep dives in Budapest and Rome,” said Babu. “Customers are seeking curated escapes that offer both value and depth, not just luxury for luxury’s sake.”
One reason behind Europe’s appeal is the availability of guaranteed visa appointments, particularly in countries like Latvia, where high value meets fewer bureaucratic delays. Japan has also emerged as a niche luxury pick, especially for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime blend of tradition, innovation, and culinary exploration.
What makes Asia the smart choice for families this Eid?
While Europe offers grandeur, Asia wins on convenience. Short-haul destinations like Thailand, Bali, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong continue to attract UAE families seeking 3–5 day holidays packed with beach time, city buzz, and family-friendly fun. These destinations are accessible, visa-light, and filled with kid-centric attractions.
“Families love these Asian destinations for the balance they provide – short flights, familiar cuisines, and child-friendly entertainment,” Babu explained. “They offer all the ingredients for a quick recharge without the stress of long-haul planning.”
Group travel has seen a 10% rise, with guided tours appealing to both first-time and budget-conscious travellers. Solo travel, particularly among millennials, remains steady, driven by a desire for flexibility and cultural connection.
How are UAE travellers planning differently this year?
The early booking trend is one of 2025’s defining features. Musafir.com reports that 60% of travellers locked in their Eid plans 3–5 weeks in advance, a strategy driven largely by surging airfare prices.
“Travellers are getting smarter about timing – booking earlier to avoid price spikes, especially for high-demand routes to Europe and Asia,” noted Babu. “They also want the peace of mind that comes with confirmed plans during peak travel windows.”
At the same time, domestic staycations are becoming increasingly popular, especially for families looking to balance Eid travel with summer VFR trips. With local hotel occupancy nearing 100%, the UAE itself is proving to be a premium destination.
Travel budgets are averaging between Dh3,500 to Dh5,500 per person, with many opting for “affordable luxury” – well-designed packages that blend comfort, cultural immersion, and cost-efficiency.
“Whether it’s a city escape to Paris or a cultural deep-dive in AlUla, our customers are no longer just ‘going away’ – they’re crafting meaningful journeys,” Babu concluded.
Most bookings continue to be made through musafir.com’s website, direct calls, or WhatsApp, with customers relying on personalised consultation and expert input to finalise their trips.