The findings reveal that 84% of respondents in both markets plan to take as many or more holidays in 2025 compared to 2024. Specifically, 54% of UAE travelers and 53% of Saudi Arabian travelers plan to take more holidays next year, while only 9% (10% in UAE, 7% in Saudi Arabia) expect fewer trips. On average, travelers in both countries plan 7.1 holidays, consisting of 2.7 domestic trips, 2.3 short-haul holidays (flights under four hours), and 2.1 long-haul vacations.

The report highlights two key travel trends. One is the rise of ‘Heritage Holidays,’ where travelers explore their family’s ancestry. Forty-nine percent of UAE travelers and 41% of Saudi Arabian travelers have already embarked on such trips, with 44% more planning to do so. Moreover, 81% of respondents across both countries express interest in heritage travel.

Another emerging trend is ‘Bravecations,’ where travelers embrace adventurous activities abroad. Over 80% of travelers from both countries report feeling braver on holiday, with 46% participating in high-altitude activities and 49% seeking high-energy experiences like zip-lining or theme park rides.

Sustainability is gaining prominence, with 87% of UAE travelers and 82% of Saudi Arabian travelers factoring in the environmental impact of their travel plans. Moreover, 67% of travelers are using AI to plan their holidays, highlighting the rise of tech-savvy travel planning.