Gulf News

Maldives has a rival in UAE traveller choices

Emiratis stick with Indian Ocean island destinatio­ns

- DUBAI BY JOHN BENNY Staff Reporter

Away from the crowds — that’s what UAE nationals deciding on a holiday destinatio­n prefer these days. Or at least 48 per cent of those who took part in a recent survey.

“We predict getaways in the mountains, countrysid­e or secluded beach resorts will be the most popular travel trends from the UAE,” said Rehab Mansoor, General Manager at Rehlaty, a unit of dnata Travel.

That’s “in addition to destinatio­ns that have imposed enhanced health and safety measures to offer added peace of mind.”

Top getaway

No wonder then going by recent trends, the Maldives figured as the top getaway for Emiratis taking a break in 2020, even with the pandemic forcing major alteration­s to travel schedules. This year, another island destinatio­n, the Seychelles, is giving Maldives a tough fight when it comes to preference­s.

“The Seychelles has always proved a popular destinatio­n for UAE nationals alongside the Indian Ocean islands of the Maldives and Mauritius,” said Mansoor.

“We predict the trend of Maldives travel as a popular holiday option will continue on throughout 2021 and beyond as it becomes even more family friendly with new resort and facility enhancemen­ts and openings,” said Mansoor.

The Seychelles has always proved a popular destinatio­n for UAE nationals alongside the Indian Ocean islands of the Maldives and Mauritius.”

Rehab Mansoor | MD at Rehlaty

Regional options

It is not just exotic tropical islands that are sought after. Morocco is also quickly emerging as a favourite for UAE’s travel-savvy population. “We have seen bookings to Morocco, with travel itinerarie­s covering the vibrant cities of Marrakesh and Casablanca, and incredible Chefchaoue­n, famous for the striking, blue-washed buildings of its old town,” said Mansoor.

Rehlaty has seen a surge in enquiries for summer travel, with customers particular­ly interested in travel updates for Bali, Thailand, and Greece.

Staycation­s to stay

Meanwhile, staycation­s continued to be among the top choices for UAE residents. As per Rehlaty’s 2020 travel intent survey, 57 per cent of UAE nationals wanted to experience more of staycation­s in the UAE this year as well.

“Customers have looked to experience more across the Emirates than ever before, including the incredible, luxurious 5-star resorts that offer private pool villas of Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah in particular,” said Mansoor.

Opening up

“In terms of the opening of destinatio­ns, we are guided by the respective government­s and flight availabili­ty,” said Mansoor. As travellers continue to expect enhanced cleaning protocols, safety precaution­s, flexible cancellati­on options and timely travel updates, technology is playing a crucial role.

“The UAE national community refers to us online for travel restrictio­n enquiries and future travel inspiratio­n — today, 90 per cent of our bookings are generated on social media,” said Mansoor. “As a result, we have a much closer view of what customers like or want because we monitor shares and mentions.”

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 ??  ?? Seychelles is closing in on Maldives as the top destinatio­n for UAE travellers.
Seychelles is closing in on Maldives as the top destinatio­n for UAE travellers.

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