Several residents nowadays are choosing staycations instead of vacations, availing benefits of the striking deals presented by Hotels in the UAE.
One such resident is Lebanese expat Aiman Jorali, who likes going on staycations every two weeks.
In an interview with the media, he expounded on his partiality for staycations over traveling abroad.
Jorali said, “By now I have enjoyed a few staycations this summer and plan to take a few more before my children’s schools reopen. My wife and I love to go on staycations every two weeks just to break the tedium. We’ve also lived in several hotels across the UAE and sometimes go to a few hotels we like repeatedly.”
Nevertheless, Jorali has also traveled with his family to London a few months ago, having reserved his tickets and lodging well in advance.
“This strategy helps me secure the best prices since we are a large family of five. For the summer, we specifically planned a few staycations. We know that international travel anywhere during summer usually costs double or triple the usual price,” said the expat who works in an automotive company.
Residents in the UAE are bagging deals on hotel stays, with discounts of up to 40 percent on rooms and villas, along with complimentary access to gyms, kids’ clubs, rooftop pools, and live entertainment.
“Last week, I stayed at a hotel in Dubai. Once again, I found great deals, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Staycations help break the routine and we manage to get the best prices during these months. In a fortnight we might explore another emirate,” added Jorali.
Ending holiday allowance
Likewise, Sharjah resident Umm e Aimal and her family decided to go on a staycation because her husband’s office holiday allowance was about to conclude.
She said, “We selected Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts because they had great summer deals. We stayed for two nights, and our children had a fantastic time at the water park. We all loved the splashes and were amiably surprised to see many other families there for a staycation.”
“Initially, my husband and I had planned a trip to Turkey, but tickets were too pricey. In addition, a week’s hotel stay seemed a luxury. With our large family of six, we decided on a staycation instead. This way, the children had a wonderful time, and we spent quality time together as a family,” added Aimal.
Prevalent trend in the last few years
Meanwhile, connoisseurs in the hotel industry have noted that some UAE residents are increasingly opting for staycations over traditional vacations.
Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel described that the trend has been predominantly visible over the past few years and continues to grow.
“Several factors impact this trend. First, the convenience and reduced travel time of staycations appeal to many residents who prefer a quick getaway without the hassle of international travel. Second, the UAE boasts a surfeit of world-class hotels and resorts that offer remarkable features and experiences, making it unnecessary for residents to travel abroad for relaxation,” said Purcell.
He rationalized residents are leaning towards properties that offer exclusive experiences and excellent amenities.
“Hotels with sea views, private villas, and apartments with comprehensive facilities are particularly popular. Our hotel, for instance, has seen a significant increase in bookings for its Summer Sea-View Staycation promotion, where guests can enjoy stunning views, beautiful accommodations, exceptional dining, and one-of-a-kind heritage.”
Places nearby malls
Tourism experts stressed that staycationers include a fragment of UAE residents who are incapable of traveling abroad due to costs, unavailability of leave, or simply a preference not to travel.
These entities often choose lodging near malls to make the most of their stay.
Vinayak Mahtani, CEO of bnb Holiday Homes, said, “Numerous residents welcome family members over to Dubai during the summer because it’s one-fourth of the price during the winter and season time.”
Mahtani mentioned that one of the interesting aspects is the ease of securing restaurant bookings, and the fact that the malls are not overly crowded.
