UAE Residents Prioritize Staycations and Cultural Experiences During Ramadan 2026
Dubai, UAE – February 18, 2026 – Travel data indicates a significant shift in travel patterns among UAE residents as Ramadan 2026 approaches, with a pronounced preference for staycations, culturally resonant destinations, and shorter trips. The holy month continues to be a defining factor in travel decisions, shaping preferences towards experiences aligned with adjusted daily routines and religious observances.
According to data released by Wego, the number one travel app and largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), staycation searches from UAE residents have more than doubled compared to Ramadan 2025. This surge reflects a growing trend of exploring the country’s offerings during the holy month, driven by ease of access, flexible trip durations, and a robust calendar of cultural and religious programming across the emirates.
Staycations Dominate Ramadan Travel Plans
Dubai and Abu Dhabi remain the most sought-after destinations for Ramadan staycations, attracting 31% of hotel searches, with a notable preference for four-star properties. The appeal of these cities lies in their diverse range of Ramadan-themed experiences, including special Iftar gatherings, traditional Ramadan tents, and cultural events. This increased demand has resulted in a 17% year-on-year increase in average hotel rates, signaling the popularity of short domestic breaks during Ramadan.
However, the decision to book a staycation is increasingly influenced by location, with travelers prioritizing hotels offering convenient access to mosque districts, cultural venues, Ramadan tents, and evening promenades. This allows residents to seamlessly combine religious observances with social and cultural activities within a single, convenient stay.
Cultural Experiences Shape Travel Choices
The desire for culturally enriching experiences continues to be a key driver of travel decisions during Ramadan. Wego data reveals that nearly 75% of the most searched hotels are located near cultural districts, heritage sites, and landmarks. This indicates a strong preference for accommodations that facilitate participation in religious and social activities, such as mosque visits, traditional markets, and Ramadan-themed events.
Travelers are increasingly selecting hotels based on their proximity to key cultural venues hosting Ramadan-related events, including evening promenades and Iftar gatherings. This underlines the growing importance of heritage-led travel during the holy month, where visitors can combine accommodation with meaningful cultural immersion.
Short-Haul Travel and Regional Connections
While domestic travel remains dominant, there has been a noticeable increase in flight searches to nearby MENA destinations during Ramadan 2026. Wego recorded a 94% increase in flight searches to regional destinations, with many residents planning short trips to visit family or explore destinations with cultural significance. Countries like Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Oman are experiencing a rise in interest, as travelers seek to connect with their cultural roots and partake in family-centric Ramadan celebrations abroad.
These trips are typically short-haul, reflecting a preference for proximity and convenience during the holy month. Average airfares for these regional trips have increased by 9% year-on-year, reflecting the growing demand for travel to MENA destinations during Ramadan. Despite the increase in flight costs, travelers are willing to pay a premium for culturally enriching trips that allow them to stay connected to their heritage.
Mobile Booking Trends
The convenience of mobile platforms is also shaping travel planning, with 69% of all Ramadan 2026 bookings made via the Wego mobile application. This highlights a strong preference for on-the-go search, comparison, and booking capabilities among travelers. Mobile booking trends also reveal that travelers are increasingly using their smartphones to compare hotels based on specific location criteria, further emphasizing the importance of proximity to cultural landmarks and dining areas.
The shift towards staycations and short-haul, culturally focused trips is expected to have a positive impact on the UAE’s tourism and retail sectors. As residents explore more local destinations, demand for services such as dining, cultural experiences, and shopping is also expected to rise, contributing to the local economy.
The travel trends observed during Ramadan 2026 reflect a broader shift in the way UAE residents approach their travel plans, with an increasing focus on domestic tourism, short-haul trips, and personalized experiences. With mobile platforms leading the way in booking behavior and a growing interest in heritage-based tourism, the future of Ramadan travel in the UAE appears to be focused on convenience, cultural connection, and sustainability.
