As travel preferences shift in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, an increasing number of tourists are embracing ‘slow’ and ‘solo’ holidays, indicating a significant transformation in how travelers approach their getaways. Industry experts have observed that these trends reflect a growing desire among travelers to engage more deeply with their destinations through longer stays rather than hurried itineraries. This focus on relaxed and solo exploration is shaping the future of travel in the region.
‘Slow holidays’ are becoming particularly popular among tourists from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with many now favoring extended periods at a single location over a packed itinerary that hops from site to site. Industry professionals attribute this trend to a desire for a more immersive travel experience, allowing travelers to connect with the culture and lifestyle of their chosen destination.
Meanwhile, ‘solo holidays’ are also gaining traction. A recent study found that 75 percent of UAE respondents have undertaken a solo trip in the past year, with 61 percent expressing interest in doing so within the next three years. This marked increase in solo travel highlights a growing trend where individuals seek personal discovery and reflection during their holidays.
The rise in travel encompassing ‘slow’ and ‘solo’ holidays is reportedly driving demand for enhanced airport services as well. Companies such as Collinson International have noted a surge in travelers from the UAE opting for payment cards that provide access to lounge services, further enhancing their airport experience.
“We have noticed a fascinating shift in travel patterns of late,” said a senior executive at Collinson International, a leading firm in airport experience solutions.
Surge in Winter Travel Predicted
Looking ahead, Collinson International forecasts a significant increase in travel from both the UAE and Saudi Arabia during the upcoming winter season. This surge is expected to include an uptick in lounge visits, as travelers increasingly prioritize comfortable and personalized experiences while waiting for their flights, whether heading out for a ‘slow’ holiday or a ‘solo’ adventure.
Based on current data, the demand for airport lounge visits has experienced a 25 percent increase this summer compared to the previous year, supporting Collinson’s projections. Notably, a study by The Future Laboratory revealed that a striking 82 percent of UAE travelers and 77 percent of Saudi tourists have already embarked on ‘slow holidays’, opting to fully immerse themselves in their destinations.
Additionally, this research indicates a greater emphasis on sustainable travel choices, with UAE travelers increasingly considering the environmental impact of their plans. Specifically, 45 percent from the UAE and 42 percent from Saudi Arabia are now making conscious decisions regarding sustainability while traveling.
UAE Travelers Likely to Change Cards for Lounge Access
As the trends of ‘slow’ and ‘solo’ holidays gain momentum, industry insiders also report that UAE travelers are becoming increasingly discerning about their overall travel experiences, including airport lounge options. Many travelers view lounges as essential spaces for relaxation before flights, offering amenities such as sleeping pods and a tranquil environment.
Recent findings suggest that nearly half of UAE travelers would consider changing their payment providers if their current cards no longer offered access to exclusive airport lounges. Collinson International’s executives noted that when consumers chose to sign up for a new card, 50 percent cited travel-related advantages, such as lounge access, as influential decision factors.
Furthermore, approximately 69 percent of UAE consumers indicated they would be inclined to switch payment providers if this access was revoked. Alongside lounge access, other sought-after benefits include complimentary airport transfers (43 percent) and discounts at airport dining or shopping (42 percent).
However, the importance of bank cards extends beyond just travel needs. Two-thirds of respondents acknowledged that favorable benefits would encourage them to spend more with their cards. Additionally, nearly half of UAE travelers prioritize rewards over the issuer’s reputation when choosing a payment card.
Experts suggest that these trends reveal a growing demand for high-quality customer experiences in a competitive marketplace, underscoring the need for card issuers to cater to traveler preferences effectively. Priyanka Lakhani, Senior Vice President of Commercial EMEA at Collinson International, shared that “travel rewards, especially access to airport lounges, are highly valued among UAE cardholders.” She added that to maintain competitiveness, “issuers must now offer personalized benefits that align closely with consumer desires for the affluent customer segments.”