A new survey by travel search engine Skyscanner has found that 92 per cent of UAE residents plan to spend as much, or more, on international travel in 2027 as they did in 2026. The findings are based on responses from more than 28,000 travellers worldwide.
The survey found that 49 per cent of UAE-based respondents expect to increase their flight budgets next year, while 39 per cent plan to spend more on accommodation. The figures suggest appetite for travel among UAE residents remains strong despite ongoing global economic uncertainty.
One standout finding was a 46 per cent year-on-year drop in average airfares to Turkey, which has helped cement the country's position as both a popular and increasingly affordable destination for travellers from the UAE. The eastern Turkish city of Van emerged as a surprise favourite, with search interest from UAE travellers up 2,607 per cent year-on-year.
The survey also points to a generational shift in travel habits: 18 per cent of UAE-based Gen Z travellers said they intend to disconnect from digital devices during upcoming trips, seeking more immersive, offline experiences. Separately, 76 per cent of UAE travellers said they chose specific destinations for exclusive shopping opportunities, while 43 per cent said they were drawn to a destination by classic stories, myths or historic events associated with it.
Taken together, the findings point to sustained demand for outbound travel among UAE residents heading into 2027, a trend that could shape airline pricing, hotel demand and destination marketing strategies targeting the UAE market in the year ahead.