Summer 2025 Travel Trends: Why are UAE residents choosing calmcations over crowds?
musafir.com launches Dh500 voucher offer for summer bookings
DUBAI: As the 2025 summer travel season gathers pace, UAE residents are redefining the way they holiday – favouring calmer, more meaningful escapes over traditional tourist hotspots.
According to musafir.com’s newly released Summer Travel Trends Insights, the focus is shifting from high-paced tourism to soulful, purposeful escapes. The platform, one of the region’s top travel providers, reports a clear move toward wellness-inspired, longer stays, and off-the-beaten-path locations. UAE travellers are increasingly prioritising personalisation, value, and calm over typical travel checklists.
“Travel is now more intentional, more reflective,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. “UAE residents are favouring slow-paced holidays, smaller towns, and wellness experiences.”
Longer stays, smaller towns
A notable 35% of UAE travellers are now choosing extended getaways lasting a month or more. This supports the rising trend of “townsizing” – opting for quaint, scenic towns over bustling cities. These destinations, mostly across Europe and Southeast Asia, offer immersive cultural experiences in serene settings.
Similarly, nearly half (49%) of musafir.com users are booking “detour destinations” – lesser-known spots that promise uniqueness without the tourist rush. Locations such as Salalah, Abha, Georgia, Armenia, and parts of Morocco are trending due to their natural beauty, cooler climates, and cost-friendly appeal.
Local retreats rise
With quick breaks becoming increasingly appealing, short staycations within the UAE and Saudi Arabia have gained momentum. These mini-retreats are popular for their convenience, allowing residents to relax without the logistical burden of long-haul travel.
Stress-conscious holidays are also leading to the rise of “calmcations.” Destinations like Bali, Thailand, Kerala, and the Philippines are in high demand for their wellness offerings – ranging from spa therapies to clean eating and nature-based relaxation.
Work meets leisure
Workcations continue to gain popularity, with about 30% of UAE travellers mixing work and leisure. Cooler areas in Europe and Southeast Asia serve as ideal backdrops for this blend, allowing professionals to remain productive while enjoying scenic escapes.
As musafir.com adapts to this evolving landscape, it has introduced its Summer Savings Spree – offering all customers Dh500 in travel vouchers for use on their next trip.