Dubai remains a sought-after travel destination, not only for global travelers but also for residents within the UAE.

Surprisingly, the top choice for UAE residents is to stay within Dubai rather than travel abroad. This preference indicates a strong local tourism inclination, with two out of the top five preferred destinations situated in the UAE.

A survey conducted by travel aggregator booking.com revealed these travel trends for 2024 after gathering insights from over 27,000 travelers across 33 countries, outlining preferences both within the UAE and globally. The study questioned over 500 UAE residents of various ages and nationalities about their travel inclinations and plans for the upcoming year.

The survey revealed that, based on bookings made through the website between January and April 2024, Dubai leads the list for hotel reservations, suggesting that residents from other parts of the country are likely heading to the emirate. Reasons for this incline include various winter events, renowned sports competitions, and annual attractions such as the Dubai Shopping Festival.

The top spots for the first quarter, according to bookings, are Dubai, Tokyo, Abu Dhabi, London, and Makkah, indicating strong preferences among UAE residents.

Other emerging trends highlight the residents' pursuit of sustainable and budget-friendly travel experiences, whether for business or leisure. Carlo Olejniczak, Vice President and Managing Director for Booking.com in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, observed, "UAE travelers show a tech-savvy, eco-conscious, and adventure-seeking profile, seeking new experiences, whether abroad or within different parts of the UAE. The upcoming year seems poised to fulfill their holiday aspirations and more.