“With schools in the UAE taking a full-month break, December has transformed into the busiest travel period, as families and tourists alike seize the opportunity for vacations and holiday trips.”
“December Becomes Prime Travel Month in UAE as Schools Take One-Month Holiday”
“As schools throughout the UAE prepare for their longest winter holiday yet, spanning from December 8 to January 4, many residents are using this period for extended trips. According to travel specialists speaking to Khaleej Times, December is emerging as the busiest travel month, with bookings rising by 35 per cent as people merge National Day, Christmas, and New Year celebrations into one prolonged vacation.”
“The time following National Day now marks the beginning of the UAE’s winter travel season,” stated Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. “With schools closing and families arranging longer holidays, people are keen to enjoy the milder weather. This year, we’re noticing a distinct trend: UAE residents aren’t merely traveling for relaxation—they’re seeking memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
“According to travel agents, December bookings are already surging, as numerous residents are securing their trips early to benefit from school holidays and sidestep rising ticket prices later in the month.
Flights are quickly reaching full capacity for both the National Day and Christmas-New Year periods,” stated Mir Wasim Raja, manager at Galadari International Travel. “Even those willing to pay top prices could struggle to find last-minute seats.
He also noted that families started organizing their trips sooner this year. “Winter travel reservations kicked off early, with many households planning in advance to make the most of the extended school holidays,” he added.
“Data from Musafir.com highlights two key travel trends this winter: long-haul cultural trips and short regional getaways.
For long-distance travel, destinations like Vietnam and Japan are popular for their cultural richness and scenic landscapes, while European cities such as Paris, Rome, Lisbon, Budapest, Switzerland, and Italy continue to draw visitors with their festive Christmas markets and seasonal charm.
Closer to the UAE, countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Egypt are experiencing a surge in visitors, fueled by events like Riyadh Season and the Qatar Winter Festival. North African spots like Tunisia and Morocco are also favored, while Latvia and Uzbekistan are attracting younger travelers seeking adventure.
Cruise holidays are emerging as a top pick this season. With prices starting around Dh1,299 per person, 3- to 7-night cruises to destinations such as Muscat, Khasab, Doha, and Bahrain are proving popular among families and groups.”
With Schengen visa approvals taking up to eight weeks, early travel planning has become crucial. According to Musafir.com, nearly 30 per cent of travellers have already secured their winter trips well ahead of time, marking a shift away from the last-minute bookings common in previous years.
Trip lengths vary, with around 65 per cent of travellers opting for five- to seven-day holidays, while others choose shorter breaks of three to four nights. Families account for 35 per cent of all bookings, followed by couples, groups of friends, and solo travellers.
With the UAE entering its longest winter holiday to date, travel specialists are advising early planning. ‘Winter travel demand is high, and fares have already risen,’ said Raja. ‘While there are still some options available, it’s wise for travellers to secure their bookings without delay.’”
