AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
UAE residents are taking a more careful approach to Eid Al Adha and summer travel this year, as higher airfares and peak-season demand push families to book early, choose shorter trips or keep local staycations on the table.
As the country's outdoor season comes to an end and school holidays approach, residents say that their travel decisions are being guided less by destination wish lists and more by flexibility and value. While some have already confirmed flights to avoid peak-season price rises, others are delaying decisions in the hope of finding better deals closer to the holidays.
Sahar Mohammad, a Syrian resident in the UAE, said that her summer holiday decision is still open. She usually books one to two months in advance for summer trips, but this year she has delayed making a final choice because prices have been moving quickly.
"I haven't booked yet for Eid Al Adha or summer," she told Aletihad. "I'm still deciding because prices seem to change a lot, and I'm waiting to see if there are better deals closer to the time."
Sahar said that an overseas trip to a cooler destination would be her preferred option, but would also consider staying in the UAE if she finds the right hotel offer. Rather than cancelling the idea of a holiday, she is looking at a shorter, more comfortable break closer to home.
"The last-minute flight and hotel prices are quite high, and it's making me rethink my plans. It's one of the main reasons I haven't confirmed anything yet," she said.
"Sometimes a short local staycation is less stressful."
For Sahar, the appeal of staying local would depend on the experience. A beach-view hotel, spa access and a slower pace would make a staycation feel suitable for Eid, she said, adding that she would prefer "something comfortable and experience-led rather than something too simple".
Other residents have taken the opposite approach, locking in travel plans early to avoid the pressure of last-minute bookings. Reham Ebrahim, an Egyptian resident, said that she has already booked her Eid Al Adha trip because she usually spends the holiday with family back home.
"I've already booked my travel for Eid Al Adha. I prefer to plan early because I usually travel back home to spend time with family, and tickets sell out quickly," Reham told Aletihad.
"Last-minute prices are very high, which is why I avoid waiting. It's not worth the risk, especially during peak travel seasons like Eid."
Ebrahim also prefers to finalise her bookings two to three months in advance, which she said helps her control costs and avoid the pressure of last-minute planning. While Eid is usually reserved for an overseas family visit, her summer plans may be more flexible, depending on her budget and schedule.
"For the summer, I might stay in the UAE or take a short regional trip. Locally, I'd enjoy something simple like a desert retreat or a quiet beach resort. I don't need anything too luxurious - just a peaceful and comfortable place to relax with family."
Travel agents say that these choices are part of a wider change in how UAE residents are planning holidays this season, according to Prabhu Natraj, Holidays Manager at SHAMS Abu Dhabi Travel.
"Airfares are higher due to strong demand and limited seats, while hotel rates remain reasonable. Overall, travel is slightly more expensive than last year," he told Aletihad.
Natraj said that more travellers are booking earlier to secure better rates, although some are still waiting for late offers despite the risk of higher prices. Demand rose during the final two to three weeks before Eid, but customers have become more selective about how much they spend.
"Spending patterns are mixed - some travellers are maintaining higher budgets, while others are opting for shorter trips or more affordable destinations," he explained.
Natraj revealed that short-haul and visa-friendly destinations are seeing strong interest from UAE residents, including Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Thailand, the Maldives and Oman. Europe remains popular, but higher costs are making some travellers weigh it more carefully against regional alternatives.
For residents who have not yet booked, Natraj added that flexibility can help reduce costs.
"We recommend early booking to avoid price hikes, remaining flexible with travel dates. Choose short-haul or visa-free destinations and opting for packages for better value."