Staycay trending in ME

Starting off the UAE, staycations have been gaining popularity among the domestic travellers in the Middle East year after year. TRAVTALK speaks to hoteliers for their feedback on the trend.

Paul Stevens, COO, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division for MEA & Türkiye, Accor
Domestic is the biggest growing market for the United Arab Emirates, as today guests prefer to travel light for convenient escapes just a drive away. Direct bookings have surged, and we see guests extending their stays to 2-3 days seeking customised offerings, beach access, kids amenities and entertainment, exceptional leisure facilities, as well as diverse F&B offerings. Families and couples particularly favour this trend, making Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island and Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach top picks for their unmatched locations. Staycations over summer year on year have become an important time to offer personalised holidays for guests across the UAE region.

Ashraf Helmi, GM and Area Business Development Manager, Naäma Beach Villas & Spa
We are experiencing high demand for staycations at Naäma Beach Villas & Spa, particularly from Dubai. We believe our villa setting provides the ideal sanctuary for people to get away from the hustle of the city. Most of our guests are coming directly through our website and calling to the resort. Our butler service ensures that every request is met for our guests.

Adrian Nastase, Director of Sales and Marketing, SLS Dubai
In the UAE, guests prefer beach stays, but during summer, downtown locations are favoured for their proximity to main attractions. Guests especially appreciate when all offerings are under one roof, as we have at SLS, where you enjoy a spa on the 69th floor, a Michelin Guide-selected restaurant, a steakhouse by a famous butcher, and the highest overflow pool.

Shady Dawad, General Manager, Millennium Place Mirdif
Staycations remain major source of business for UAE hotels during summer months, especially among residents looking for a quick getaway. They favour staying at city hotels with comprehensive amenities, downtown or beach resorts offering a relaxing experience. Most guests book their staycations directly through hotel websites or apps for exclusive offers.

Mohammed Iqbal, General Manager, Khalidia Place Hotel Dubai by Mourouj Gloria
One of the main factors contributing to the popularity of staycations is the convenience they offer. With busy work schedules and limited vacation time, many people find it easier to plan a short getaway within the country rather than travelling overseas, as staycations provide a safe and comfortable alternative for those looking to relax and unwind.

Tareq Bin Hussain, Director of Sales, Shangri-la Dubai
Staycations remain popular in the UAE. Guests prefer to stay in luxury hotels and resorts, especially those with exceptional facilities and unique experiences in prime locations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Bookings for staycations are made directly or through agents. Guests expect premium service, diverse dining options, & leisure activities.

Sapna Aidasani, Director Marketing, Pluto Travel
Staycations are ever popular, and most preferred destinations are Ras al Khaimah, Fujairah and Abu Dhabi. Many hotels are approaching us and offering value deals like all-inclusive or half-board deals, or stay with theme parks visits and this is much cheaper than booking directly. So, we get many inquiries and booking for staycay.

Compiled by Dr Shehara Rizly