UAE residents are seeking winter travel destinations that range from festive European Christmas markets to luxurious domestic getaways during National Day celebrations, according to Expedia’s Winter Travel Outlook.
This year, Vienna and Rome top the list of trending destinations, as searches for Christmas market hotspots have surged significantly among UAE travellers. Amsterdam has also emerged as a winter favourite, with searches rising by 65 percent for December and January.
Meanwhile, domestic travel is witnessing a boost, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai seeing spikes of 105 percent and 60 percent, respectively, as residents opt for ‘staycations’ during the National Day holiday (December 2 to 4).
European destinations are capturing the imagination of UAE travellers this winter. Christmas markets in Vienna and Rome are driving interest, as these cities offer a perfect blend of seasonal charm, winter activities, and cultural attractions.
The Dutch capital, Amsterdam, has gained traction with its unique winter offerings, including the Amsterdam Light Festival and the Christmas Village on Museumplein.
Expedia also reports a marked increase in searches for Paris and London, with year-on-year growth of 235 percent and 205 percent, respectively, solidifying their places as perennial favourites. Long-haul destinations like Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, are also seeing heightened interest as families seek immersive festive experiences.
For travellers seeking closer options, Baku and Tbilisi have emerged as standout destinations. With year-on-year search increases of 515 percent and 210 percent, respectively, these cities offer affordable luxury, cultural festivities, and easy accessibility.
Winter sports enthusiasts are also drawn to nearby mountain resorts such as Shahdag and Gudauri. Doha is another trending destination, with a 235 percent search increase, driven by its luxury hospitality offerings, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities.
The UAE’s National Day celebrations are sparking a surge in domestic travel. Searches for Abu Dhabi have risen by 105 percent, driven by the city’s mix of cultural attractions and luxury accommodations, while Dubai has seen a 60 percent increase as residents enjoy the cooler weather and vibrant festivities. Ras Al Khaimah is also maintaining its popularity as a serene local getaway.
Warm-weather destinations like Zanzibar, Phuket, and Singapore are also luring travellers seeking to escape the winter chill. White sandy beaches, diverse food scenes, and world-class attractions make these locations ideal for holiday relaxation.
To help travellers make the most of the season, Expedia recommends opting for morning flights, choosing flexible bookings, and taking advantage of seasonal discounts available through its platform. Whether visiting Santa in Finland or exploring the festive lights of Amsterdam, UAE travellers have plenty of options to create memorable winter experiences this season.
