TL; Dr.
- This year’s journey is more expensive and unexpected
- UAE Hotels are giving better deals for local guests
- People are feeling that there is a lot to enjoy close to the house
In 2025, the increasing number of residents of UAE is keeping their passport away, and it is not because they have to do. They are doing it by liking it. International travel is more expensive, more stressful and less attractive, which used to happen. And at the same time, the local hospitality has taken a serious step.Hotels in Dubai are offering the thoughtful package designed for residents, Ras al Khamah, Abu Dhabi, and beyond the residents. Think of low weekend brakes, family friendly rates, and no long race flights to deal with it. Inflation still increases the cost of a global journey, seeking a migration simple and smart.And the numbers returned it: 2025 UAE travel pulse of the visa shows that the local travel expenses are about 70% compared to the previous year. There used to be a backup plan which is now being made the main plan.Let us break why more people are living in 2025.
1. Cost more than the price of international travel
Flights inside and outside the UAE are more expensive this year. And it is not only air fare, visa, travel insurance, and increasing hotel rates in popular sites are increasing overall costs.For many people, spending AED 15,000 for a four -day visit in Europe does not just feel like a good deal. Especially when a migration within the UAE can provide a luxury hotel, five -star service and access to the beach, without leaving the country or breaking the bank.You drive, you check, and you are on holiday.
2. UAE is giving hotel residents what they want
Hotels have seen shifts here, and they have adjusted. Under the Central Hotels and Resorts, the properties like those properties report a sharp increase in local booking. And this is not just a blip. This is a reaction of new demand.Now the local package includes:
- Stay free for children
- Late check-out
- Spa and food discount
- Desert safari and beach access like ad-on
These are not just offers, they are the real reasons that people are choosing local on international.And it is not only in Dubai. Resorts in Ajman, Sharjah and Northern Emirates are drawn into more local guests with similar deals.
3. UAE has more to offer than you think
Many people still underestimate how much UAE has to offer. You can drive a few hours and end in a completely different settings.Some options resident are enjoying more in 2025:
- Desert resorts with Stargaging and Tibba Dining
- Cool beaches live with all day brunch and private cabana
- Mountain hike in Hatta and Fujarah
- City breaks with roof pool and horizon scenes
And with the plan of inauguration of more hotels this year, options are rapidly expanding.
4. It is a better fit for families and working professionals
For parents, the journey must be simple. Spending less time at airports, better. Migration makes it easier, especially with flexible booking, child -friendly activities and short travel time.On the other hand, professionals want quick brakes that do not disrupt their schedule. On Thursday night check-in and Sunday afternoon check-out is now common. This rhythm works well and it is catching.Even single travelers and couples are looking upside down: less logistics, greater flexibility, and no jet intervals.
5. Stay local helps in economy
It is not just about comfort or convenience. When residents choose local holidays, it helps to keep money within the community.Hotels are busy. Restaurant Benefits. Tour operators and local attractions also get more footfalls during the off-peak season.According to STR, Dubai’s hotel occupancy rate is already more than 78% in 2025, and a large part of it comes from domestic guests.
Does it come down
You don’t have to travel far to feel that you are on leave. In 2025, more UAE residents know that a small drive can give them everything they need, a break, a change of view, and time to relax.And when you are not wasting hours at an airport or spending thousands on flights, you have more time (and money) to enjoy the journey.Sometimes, the best place to go is below the road.
Fasting
- 1. Is it really cheaper than foreign travel?
Yes. Once you have flights, visas, and factor in foreign hotel prices, being local is often more cheap.
- 2. Are there an option to be good outside Dubai?
Definitely. Raas al -Khemah, Fujarah, and even places such as al -an al -anne provide great migration, with many nature, history and family activities.
- 3. Are local hotels offering real value or just promotion?
Off are real. Hotels are competing for local guests, so now the package includes useful allowances such as dining credit, spa access and flexible check-in time.