The holiday season in the UAE sees an influx of travellers from around the world, coming to the country to celebrate in a grand way. However, there is also a large number of people who travel to other countries or even to the other emirates to celebrate the festivities as the holidays roll in. The American Express Trendex Survey has revealed the UAE consumer travel and holiday spending habits. Here’s what the data showcases.
American Express Trendex Survey Reveals Winter & Spring Travel Trends
According to the research, 97% of UAE consumers have plans to travel during the upcoming winter and spring holidays. Most of them, which makes about 61% are for leisurely purposes. About 56% of the respondents want to explore new destinations and 48% of the people are visiting family and friends. The data from the Amex Trendex Survey also reveals that the majority of travellers are willing to spend more for their high-end travel experience. The research reveals that 78% are willing to spend extra for personalised experiences, 74% are willing to do so for private transportation, and 66% are ready to do so for first-class/luxury accommodation.
Strong Interest In Live Experiences As Presents
According to the data, consumers have shown a strong interest for experiences like travel and entertainment. As a result, one can easily find that experiential gifting has become a strong interest and an emerging trend for being a highly sought-after present. Yes, 74% of the UAE survey customers preferred these live experiences over physical gifts.
In fact, for the holiday season, the survey revealed a strong emphasis on connection, with respondents wanting to prioritise time and celebrations with their loved ones.
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Consumers Wanted To Spend Time With Family
Over 52% of the respondents wanted to make time for their family and friends over the winter and spring holidays. As such, 62% of them wanted to host gatherings at home and about 48% of them wanted to host family and friends for extended holiday stays. Not to mention, engaging experiences like holiday festivals and markets are also on the top list of planned activities for about 58% of the respondents.
On a concluding note, it should be mentioned that this survey was conducted between October 24 to November 4, 2024. Amex Trendex Survey is a trend indicator, which measures the perception of consumers, merchants, and small businesses on a variety of topics pertaining to spending, saving, and travel.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (Images are for representative purposes only)
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