According to data from Skyscanner, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are emerging as top holiday destinations for travelers from Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and South Korea in 2026. Tourists are increasingly selecting locations based on the enjoyable experiences offered during their stay.
The “Travel Trends for 2026” report from Skyscanner indicates a desire among travelers to explore authentic destinations that remain relatively low-key yet provide unique experiences away from traditional tourist spots.
Dubai benefits from seamless air connectivity and visa-free entry for travelers from Canada, with price drops of 16% compared to 2024. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi has become a favored choice for South Korean tourists, showing a 27% decrease in prices for 2025.
In a separate report from Skyscanner, Dubai has been highlighted as a preferred destination for this year, with an impressive increase of 89.7% in hotel searches and bookings compared to 2024. Looking ahead to next year, travelers plan to spend an average of 6 days on their trips, up from four days in 2025.
Sharjah
In Germany, Sharjah is gaining traction as a preferred travel choice, with a substantial 101% rise in searches compared to 2024. This can be attributed to the availability of several low-cost airlines servicing the area, in addition to its rich cultural, historical sites and beaches.
Sharjah also stands out for Swiss travelers, with a 99% increase in searches for 2025 compared to the previous year.
While the UAE boasts a variety of notable attractions, individuals are increasingly focused on maximizing their holiday experiences. The report reveals that hotels play a crucial role in destination selection.
The “Travel Trends for 2026” report from Skyscanner highlights that 76% of travelers base their destination choices on accommodation options, showing a significant influence of hotels on the decisions of younger travelers.
This reflects the importance of lodging to most survey participants and its role in shaping the overall holiday experience, allowing travelers to relax in one place and enjoy a comprehensive experience away from daily life stresses.
As the UAE hosts numerous hotels, this sector continues to attract international travelers by combining global luxury, innovative designs, and unique experiences.
Some hotels offer exceptional amenities, including private beaches and pools, while others are strategically located near major attractions, such as theme parks and shopping centers.
This trend is evident in the data, showing that the UAE is a preferred vacation spot for 2026 for travelers from the UK, India, Germany, France, Italy, Turkey, Australia, and the Netherlands.
Ayoub Mamoun, a travel expert at Skyscanner, stated that the UAE has always been a favorite among travelers worldwide, thanks to its warm climate, geographical positioning that facilitates air connectivity, and its rich cultural heritage alongside diverse entertainment options. Hotels have played a crucial role in this growth by catering to increasing demand and enhancing the visitor experience.