UAE Travel Trends 2026: From Farm Stays to Set-Jetting, How Residents Are Planning Smarter, More Meaningful Trips

UAE travel trends 2026 reveal a shift towards richer, more intentional travel experiences, as highlighted by Expedia’s new Unpack ’26 report. Moving beyond the typical beach and mall holidays, residents are embracing adventures that connect them deeply with culture, nature, and unique local experiences. Whether it’s farm stays, sport-focused trips, or multi-hotel city breaks, the emphasis is on quality over quantity.

Sustainability is at the forefront, with Expedia’s Smart Travel Health Check spotlighting destinations like Okinawa, Savoie, and Hobart that marry tourism with environmental responsibility. Sports enthusiasts from the UAE are eager to immerse themselves in authentic local sporting cultures—such as Muay Thai in Thailand or sumo in Japan—with 86% open to trying new sports abroad. The rising trend of “set-jetting,” where travelers visit locations featured in popular films and TV shows, is embraced by 81% of UAE travelers, turning on-screen moments into travel plans.

New accommodation styles are gaining traction in 2026. Salvaged Stays, where old schools or banks become boutique hotels, attract attention alongside a growing preference for “hotel hopping” to experience diverse neighborhoods and budgets in one trip. Farm stays offer a tranquil escape, with 84% wanting to swap cityscapes for nature. Meanwhile, reading retreats or “readaways” are becoming a popular choice, fueled by the surge of literary-themed travel inspired by platforms like #BookTok.

In summary, UAE residents’ travel plans for 2026 are geared toward slow, meaningful, and sustainable journeys, heralding a new era of intentional travel.