UAE luxury staycation deals fuel domestic tourism boom

21/07/2025 02:07 AST

The UAE's domestic tourism sector is experiencing a significant surge, with staycations proving to be a highly attractive option for residents seeking luxury and value, particularly during the traditionally quieter summer months.

Despite soaring temperatures, a compelling combination of competitive pricing, half-board offerings, and world-class experiences is enticing UAE residents to opt for local getaways over international travel.

Ahmed M. Soliman, Group Managing Director of TCA Group of Companies, said hotels offer "phenomenal value" during the summer months. "When you do comparative value to European travel - a 23 square metre room in Capri or Portofino for $1500 - you're getting a super five-star resort here. Yes, the weather isn't great, but the product is excellent," he said, underscoring the perceived benefit of local offerings.

This sentiment resonates strongly with consumers, who are increasingly prioritising the "value and experiences" they receive for their spend.

While the summer heat in the GCC is often cited as a deterrent, industry experts and hotel offerings suggest that the focus has shifted to providing exceptional indoor experiences and value-driven packages that negate the impact of the weather.

According to Soliman, the emphasis on half-board options enhances the value proposition for families and individuals seeking a great holiday experience without the added cost of external dining.

UAE - a top destination
Supporting this trend, the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) - an alliance of hotel brands headquartered in the UAE - recently reported continued growth in the first half of 2025. While international stays accounted for 70 per cent of overall revenue, the UAE itself emerged as the top destination, generating revenue from international stays, followed by Thailand, Spain, Singapore, and Italy. This indicates a robust appeal for the UAE as a destination, not just for international visitors but also implicitly for its resident population.

Affordable luxury
Hotels across the UAE are capitalising on this domestic demand with attractive promotions. Pullman Downtown Dubai, for instance, is promoting its Roland-Garros suite with a special "Accor ALL - Limitless Hotel Escape Summer Offer," providing up to 20 per cent off for minimum two-night stays.

"We've seen strong interest in our Roland-Garros suite, so it made perfect sense to link it with the ALL - Accor Hotel Escape Offer. Even though this year's tournament has ended, guests can still book the immersive suite and enjoy the full experience through May 2026," said Anna Luisa Asistio, Marketing and Communications Manager, Pullman Downtown Dubai.

Similarly, Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi is offering UAE residents a 30 per cent discount on stays until September 30th, encouraging indulgence in "sun-soaked relaxation, world-class dining, high-energy fitness classes, energetic live entertainment, and a brand-new karaoke night."

Another example is Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts' 'Exceptional Staycation Offer,' where UAE residents can unlock up to 40 per cent savings on 'Bed and Breakfast' rates and up to 30 per cent on' Half Board' rates. Participating hotels include iconic properties like Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and Jumeirah Emirates Towers.

Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis, The Royal Palm, Jumeirah resorts are offering significant discounts for UAE residents. Atlantis The Palm provides up to 25 per cent off the best available room rate with complimentary breakfast, while Atlantis The Royal offers Emirates ID cardholders up to 20 per cent off rooms, suites, and penthouses.

"These are high-value luxury offerings at great prices. You don't get it anywhere else," said Soliman.

This strategic pivot by hotels, coupled with the inherent value proposition of the UAE's luxury hospitality sector, is successfully transforming the summer period into a peak season for domestic tourism.

Gulfnews