Top 5 Eid Al Adha destinations for UAE travellers

UAE travellers are increasingly prioritising short-haul leisure breaks and experience-led holidays for Eid Al Adha 2026, driving strong demand across island and European destinations.

 

International trips account for 72% of bookings compared to 28% for UAE staycations, according to Dnata Travel.

 

The Maldives, Mauritius and Thailand continue to be the strongest-performing island destinations, while Athens and the surrounding Greek islands are seeing growing interest from UAE travellers. France remains a staple for culture and leisure travel, with bookings rising 57% year-on-year in 2025, while Seychelles saw a 40% increase.

 

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Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at Dnata Travel, said Eid Al Adha remains a key travel period for UAE residents, with travellers increasingly looking to maximise breaks through well-planned, multi-stop itineraries and premium experiences.

 

“Interest is rising in locations such as Sarajevo, Bodrum and lesser-discovered Greek islands, as well as more curated, experience-led itineraries,” she added.

 

Within the UAE, Dubai accounts for around 70% of staycation bookings, supported by hotel offers and family-focused packages. Abu Dhabi continues to attract cultural and entertainment-driven demand through Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, while Ras Al Khaimah is seeing increased interest in all-inclusive resorts on Al Marjan Island.

 

The UAE recently announced a week-long break for public sector employees for Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha. While final dates remain subject to moon sighting, government employees are set to be off from Monday 25 to Friday 29 May 2026, with work resuming on Monday 1 June. Private sector holidays have yet to be announced.

 

For more information, visit dnatatravel.com