As Eid Al-Adha approaches, UAE travellers are showing a clear preference for short-haul escapes to nearby GCC destinations, according to new search data from Skyscanner, a leading global travel marketplace.
According to Skyscanner’s latest search data from January to April, Dubai was the most searched-for destination for travel between 5–9 June, followed by Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Muscat. The week commencing 21 April marked the peak search window to these destinations with a 48% increase in week-on-week interest suggesting that nearby destinations remain the top choice for those planning quick Eid escapes.
Last-minute bookings remain a common trend during Eid, as many residents look to finalise travel plans closer to the holiday itself. With school terms still in session and summer holidays not yet underway, families favour short, manageable breaks that require minimal disruption to their work and academic schedules.
In April, 80% of travel search activity focused on trips lasting a week or less, reflecting a preference for short breaks. This mirrors behaviour from Eid 2024, when 96% of bookings to GCC destinations were for stays under seven days, highlighting the enduring popularity of convenient, short-haul travel options.
The timing of Eid Al Adha falling just before the school summer holidays appears to be a key factor shaping travel choices this year. Parents are opting for quick and accessible destinations that allow them to make the most of the long weekend without the need for extended planning or long-haul flights.
Dubai’s popularity also extends to the global stage. In April 2025, it ranked as the third most popular destination for global hotel bookings, behind Mumbai and London. So far in May, Dubai holds the fourth spot globally, following Mumbai, Tokyo and London—with Osaka rounding out the top five. The result reinforces the city’s appeal as a preferred destination during peak travel periods.
