Eid Al Adha and summer remain key periods for UAE tourism, with a shift in traveler engagement observed in 2025. Samir Hamadeh, founder and CEO of Elevate DMC, discusses evolving traveler behavior, from luxury family trips to cultural experiences.
Eid Al Adha Impact and Trends:
– Peak travel period with a shift towards intentional travel
– Increasing demand for cultural experiences, wellness escapes, and cinematic-inspired journeys
– Expansion of curated experiences to align with evolving preferences
Shift in Traveler Types:
– Clear shift towards family-focused, luxury, and adventure-driven travel
– Record increase in hotel guests in 2024, driven by multi-generational travelers
– Curating staycations and active escapes to cater to luxury travelers
Catering to Domestic and Regional Travelers:
– Offering tailored experiences for UAE and GCC residents seeking staycations or short-haul getaways
– Collaborating with leading hospitality brands and boutique resorts for luxury staycations
– Designing short-haul getaways to culturally rich destinations for quick breaks
Culturally Immersive Experiences during Eid:
– Rise in interest for experiences offering deeper cultural connection
– Development of bespoke Eid itineraries with heritage walks, craft workshops, and culinary experiences
– Providing meaningful interactions while celebrating the season’s spirit
Attracting Tourists during Off-Season:
– Implementing citywide summer offerings in gastronomy, retail, and entertainment
– Aligning with initiatives like Dubai Summer Surprises to attract tourists
– Positioning the UAE as a vibrant year-round destination, even during quieter months.