Travel Serenity: New Trends Among UAE Residents

Travel Serenity: New Trends Among UAE Residents

The era of traditional, hurried sightseeing has ended. More and more UAE residents are turning away from overcrowded tourist centers and opting for journeys centered on tranquility, relaxation, and genuine rejuvenation. Even during the summer holidays, a new perspective is gaining traction: the focus is on 'calmcation' and 'slowcation', emphasizing physical and mental well-being and deep experiences.

Calmcation: A New Form of Peaceful Relaxation

'Calmcation' is conscious relaxation away from noisy cities, tight schedules, and tourist crowds. Travelers from the UAE are increasingly seeking quiet villages in Austria, wellness centers in Bali, or proximity to nature in Thailand, the Philippines, and Kerala. The aim: to slow down, rest, retreat, eat healthily, and rediscover oneself.

Wellness travel, which includes spa treatments, yoga, meditation, and a nature-connected lifestyle, has become a way of life rather than a luxury. These trips do not follow the concept of 'seeing as much as possible in a short time', but rather encourage spending longer in one place and truly being present.

Townsizing and Slowcation: The New Allure of Small Towns

'Townsizing' means travelers choose small towns over big cities. These locations are smaller, quieter, and offer local experiences such as authentic cuisine, friendly people, and undisturbed natural surroundings. Whether targeting Europe's hidden gems or Southeast Asia's charming towns, travelers are now spending more time in one location.

'Slowcation' means slowing down travel. No more rushing from one sight to another. Instead, fewer places are visited, but with deeper immersion—learning about local culture, flavors, customs, and most importantly: slowing down.

Staycation: Rejuvenation Within the UAE Borders

Not everyone desires to travel abroad. UAE and Saudi Arabia's domestic resorts have also become popular among those seeking relaxation. These staycations offer both comfort and time-saving—there’s no airport stress, no long trips, yet serenity and relaxation are guaranteed.

Detour Destinations: Lesser-Known Gems

Another notable trend is the popularity of 'alternative' destinations. Many UAE travelers now choose places that do not belong to the traditional tourist mainstream. Abha, Salalah, Jordan, or Morocco are increasingly sought after—not only for their beauty and cultural richness but also for their favorable value for money.

Workcation: Blending Work and Relaxation

With the spread of flexible work arrangements, the concept of 'workcation' has emerged: working from remote, picturesque locations. More people are working from the Georgian mountains, the Swiss Alps, or even Bali while spending their leisure time in nature or wellness programs.

It is also common to add a few days of relaxation to business trips. So, for instance, after a Japanese conference, they regenerate at a secluded mountain resort before returning to daily life.

A New Perspective on Travel

By 2025, the goal of travel will not (just) be to check off as many places as possible from a bucket list. The focus has shifted towards the quality of experiences, self-care, being stress-free, and emotional recharge.

UAE residents now prefer tailoring experiences to themselves and choosing destinations that bring them closer not only to new landscapes but also to themselves.

(Source: Based on statements from UAE travelers.)