As the UAE National Day weekend approaches, India has emerged as the leading travel hotspot for residents seeking memorable getaways. According to new insights from global travel platform Skyscanner, the allure of Indian cities is drawing considerable interest, making it the top destination for individuals eager to take advantage of the extended holiday. With public holidays confirmed for December 1 and 2, many UAE travelers are setting their sights on India for the festivities.
The UAE government has declared December 1 and 2 as public holidays in celebration of the country’s 54th National Day, resulting in a much-anticipated four-day weekend. As temperatures begin to cool across the Emirates, a significant number of travelers are looking beyond their borders for vacation options, with Indian cities topping the list in travel searches.
India Tops UAE Holiday Searches
Data from Skyscanner, gathered from searches conducted between July and November, highlights that popular destinations like Kozhikode, Kochi, Mumbai, Thiruvananthapuram, New Delhi, and Kannur rank among the most sought-after locations for travel from November 28 to December 4. This trend indicates a strong affinity for India, making it the most favored travel hotspot during the National Day weekend.
The popularity of these Indian destinations can be attributed to their rich cultural experiences, short flight durations, and numerous direct connections from the UAE. Other cities such as Manila, London, and Cairo also appeared on the list of preferred travel spots, but India remains the standout choice for many Emirati travelers.
Skyscanner reports that most residents are leaning towards short trips, with 79% of searches focused on journeys lasting up to one week. On average, travelers begin their search approximately 54 days prior to their departure. This proactive planning further illustrates the excitement surrounding India as a travel destination during this holiday period.
In a broader analysis, India has secured the top rank in overall country searches, surpassing Pakistan and the United Kingdom. Other countries like Egypt, the Philippines, Thailand, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka also made it into the top ten list, showcasing a diverse array of travel options for the National Day weekend.
Ayoub El Mamoun, a Travel Expert at Skyscanner, stated, “Holidays during the UAE’s National Day celebrations have always been popular for travelers, and this year is no different, as people look to make the most of the long weekend by flying overseas. Convenience and ease of accessibility are two key factors when it comes to selecting trip locations, and we are seeing that destinations in Europe and Asia continue to be top choices.”
He added, “It is no surprise that six of India’s cities featured in the top 10 list, while it also ranks first ahead of Pakistan and the UK for destination countries. Given that flight times to India range between three and four hours, along with a blend of cultural and leisure opportunities, it’s evident why travelers are opting for India for a quick getaway.”