UAE staycation bookings have risen 31% year-on-year ahead of the October half-term, with residents increasingly choosing shorter breaks closer to home, according to dnata Travel.

Dubai accounts for 78% of staycation bookings, followed by Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah.

Outbound demand remains strong, with the Maldives, Spain, France, Thailand and Mauritius among the most popular destinations.

Spain recorded a 65% increase in sales, while travel to the US rose 6%.

France and Japan are also ahead of last year, with growing interest in cooler-weather destinations such as Finland.

Family travel spending is increasing, with average booking values up 6% year-on-year.

Bookings through dnata Travel’s retail stores rose 16%, while bookings generated through social media channels tripled compared with last year.

Beach and all-inclusive resorts continue to attract families seeking convenient, value-focused breaks, while hotels close to leisure and entertainment attractions are also seeing strong demand. 

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, said: “The October half-term break remains an important travel period for UAE residents. The sustained popularity of staycations reflects broader shifts in traveller behaviour, with families placing greater value on convenience, flexibility, and meaningful experiences as shorter breaks become an increasingly appealing way to maximise time away.”

Ketait added:“Beyond the UAE, we’re seeing strong demand for nearby beach destinations such as the Maldives, Mauritius, and Thailand. These destinations continue to resonate with travellers by offering a compelling combination of accessibility, value, and family appeal. At the same time, social media continues to play a growing role in inspiring destination choices and shaping booking decisions.” -TradeArabia News Service