Luxury travellers are planning an average of eight, according to a new report. 

The first Luxury Travel Report compiled by Preferred Hotels & Resorts found that travellers with a bigger budget are planning to spend more on travel than 2024. They are hoping to use that cash to secure at least three international journeys this year, that include immersive, curated experiences that feel personal and enduring.

 That’s great news for the Middle East’s tourism industry, which is a magnet for wealthier travellers seeking high-end, unique and authentic experiences. 

“The Luxury Travel Report by Preferred Hotels & Resorts deepens our understanding of the ever-evolving desires of luxury travellers,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, Chief Executive Officer of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

The report found five emerging trends amongst luxury travellers that Travel Agents may like to take note of:  

Travel agents are still highly desired 

AI and tech can’t replace the personal touch of a travel agent, especially amongst luxury travellers. Around 84% of those surveyed agreed that a trusted travel advisor is more valuable than unlimited internet research. 

Luxury travellers don’t want ‘sameness’ 

The ‘beige-ification’ of the travel industry is out and unique is absolutely in, particularly when it comes to hotel selection. According to the report, nearly three-quarters of affluent travellers say they won’t pay for luxury accommodation that feels generic. 

Affluent travellers are craving unrepeatable places and destinations that excite, environments that surprise, and experiences rooted in individuality. What’s more unrepeatable and exciting that staying at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, the world’s highest suspended suite, or the Alila Jabal Akhdar in Oman that’s perched 2,000m above sea level?

Travel moments that shift worldviews 

In the spirit of tossing out the old, luxury travellers are replacing accumulation with transformation. They’re seeking rare, authentic experiences that fundamentally shift their worldview and create lasting memories. 

According to the report, over four-in-five luxury travellers say that insider connections help them unlock unforgettable travel moments and 64% prefer to navigate a destination with the advice from a local. 

So while AI may be helpful in easing travel, it’s still human connection and locals that help deliver the best travel experiences. 

Curation is the new standard of luxury 

Luxury travellers aren’t asking for much – just that their holidays feel effortless yet expertly crafted. That’s what around 90% of high-budget holidaymakers said they expected during the survey, while 89% expressed interest in seeing local charm reflected in hotels. 

The Middle East is filled with properties that capture the local spirit, especially Al Seef Heritage Hote in Dubai which replicates a traditional Emirati village, and The Chedi Muscat which combines Islamic design elements with Asian-inspired tranquility.

Heritage is the new frontier

Luxury travellers don’t want to just observe history – they want to be part of it. Around 90% said they seek experiences that immerse them in history and culture, favouring heritage-rich stays. 

Fortunately, the Middle East is one of the most historically rich regions in the world being home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites including Madā’in Sāliṭ, also known as Al-Hijr, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, Umm el-Jimal City in Jordan, and Monastery of Saint Hilarion/Tell Umm Amer in Palestine.

Read the full report here.