Thursday, February 20, 2025

Africa, Europe and the Middle East see a travel surge as UAE and Saudi Arabia travelers plan more holidays in 2025, embracing adventure, heritage, and value.

A remarkable eighty-one percent of travelers across UAE and KSA have either embarked on or are planning a ‘heritage holiday,’ with this trend peaking at eighty-five percent among the twenty-five to thirty-four age group.

The primary motivation? A deep-rooted belief that understanding one’s ancestry and family history is essential—expressed by forty-three percent of respondents across both nations (forty-four percent in UAE, forty-one percent in KSA).

Another standout insight from the research is the rise of ‘Bravecations’—a term describing how people embrace new, daring experiences while traveling, often pushing beyond their comfort zones.

More than eight in ten travelers admit to feeling braver on vacation, with eighty percent in UAE and eighty-three percent in KSA willing to step out of their usual routines.

Top three daring experiences travelers try on holiday but hesitate to do at home:

When it comes to accommodation choices in 2025, travelers continue to prioritize the “brilliant basics”—with cleanliness, location, and customer service topping the list:

Key motivations for travelers in 2025:

While the desire to travel more is strong, budget-conscious travelers are prioritizing value for money in their holiday choices.

The biggest factor influencing booking decisions? Exclusive deals and discounts, with fifty-four percent of travelers (fifty-one percent in UAE, fifty-seven percent in KSA) confirming they would be swayed by a special price.

Additionally, “shoulder season” travel—choosing to vacation just outside peak season—has gained momentum as a savvy strategy to save money. Seventy-six percent in UAE and seventy-four percent in KSA have either tried or considered this approach to get better value for their trips.

As 2025 approaches, travelers are embracing heritage exploration, adventure-filled getaways, and smarter travel planning while prioritizing affordability, sustainability, and personalized experiences. The new era of travel isn’t just about where you go, but how boldly and meaningfully you experience it.