More residents opt for staycations

WITH THE addition of new attractions in the UAE, domestic tourism is growing as UAE residents are increasingly taking short breaks to spend time with their families here and avoiding expensive long-haul holidays, say industry executives.

Laurent A. Voivenel, senior vice-president, operations and development for Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International, said there is a significant boost in domestic tourism when it comes to short breaks as the UAE has recently added a whole lot of new entertainment and tourism hubs to its rich repertoire of diverse attractions, including new hotels and dining outlets.

“No other single destination in the region is as attractive or diverse in its offering as the UAE. More and more people are, therefore, opting for staycations as they save both money and time and allow people to experience world-class leisure attractions without having to travel. Moreover, it’s not just about where you go on vacation that matters, but also whether you are able to relax and unwind,” he said.

He noted that long-haul holidays are expensive and can be stressful, especially if it is to get away for only a few days. Therefore, a lot of families prefer to stay back and explore the local hotels and attractions that gives them a sense of escape without going too far.