When the mercury rises in the UAE, most people might think it’s time to jet off elsewhere. However, recent data from Skyscanner tells a different story. According to the aggregator, more travellers, both residents and international visitors, are opting to stay put and discover the Emirates through a local lens.
Domestic tourism is booming, with searches for UAE travel climbing by 165% in late June alone. July was the busiest month of all, proving that “staycations” are a great way to explore and experience the UAE.
The UAE’s top staycation hotspots
It’s no surprise that Dubai tops the charts. Not only is it the country’s number one staycation spot, but it also ranked as the fifth most searched-for global hotel destination this summer. But look beyond the glitzy skyline, and you’ll find neighbourhoods brimming with local gems, from tucked-away shawarma joints in Satwa to beachside cafés in Jumeirah where locals cool off after sunset.
Abu Dhabi isn’t far behind. The capital is drawing travellers in with cultural escapes like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Hosn, alongside family-friendly resorts on Saadiyat Island. For a true local tip? Time your visit for the evening, when temperatures are cooler, and enjoy a sunset stroll along the Corniche.
Sharjah and Al Ain are fast becoming the go-to for those who want a slower, more authentic pace. Whether it’s wandering through Sharjah’s museums and art spaces, or escaping the heat in Al Ain’s lush oasis and mountain trails, both offer a refreshing contrast to the usual tourist circuit.
Adventure seekers haven’t been left out either. Ras Al Khaimah is climbing the popularity charts with its rugged landscapes, mountain hikes, and road-trip-worthy routes. If you’re keen on something adrenaline-fuelled, the Jebel Jais zipline (the world’s longest) is a bucket-list experience.
Smart travel hacks for the summer
One of the biggest perks of going local is the affordability. Average hotel rates in the UAE start from just AED322 (USD88) per night, far cheaper than comparable escapes in Oman (from AED621 / USD169) or Turkey (from AED376 / USD102). That leaves more in your pocket for experiences, be it a desert safari, a spa day, or a foodie tour.
Car hire is another savvy choice for summer travellers. Skyscanner data shows Dubai and Abu Dhabi as the top pick-up and drop-off spots, making it easy to plan your own road trip. Having a car means you can chase cooler breezes in the mountains, explore beaches at sunrise, or simply hop between Emirates at your own pace.
And here’s a pro tip – embrace the evenings. Locals know that the UAE comes alive after dark in summer. Night markets, late-opening malls, and outdoor cafés all buzz with energy well past midnight. Pair that with a dip in your hotel pool during the day, and you’ve got the perfect rhythm for a summer staycation.
Why staycations are here to stay
Ayoub El Mamoun, Travel Expert at Skyscanner, sums it up:
“This summer proved that the UAE residents showed more interest in staycations and domestic trips within the country. This is no surprise as the UAE is already a leading global destination for tourism with many landmark attractions, hotels, restaurants and cultural experiences and activities for all to visit and enjoy and will continue to be a busy hub for both residents and citizens and tourists in the future.”
So next time you’re tempted to cut short your stay in the UAE or book a flight elsewhere during the warmer months, take a cue from the locals. The best of the UAE might just be right on your doorstep. From hidden cafés to mountain escapes, cultural landmarks to budget-friendly resorts, the warmer months are proving to be a great time to explore the UAE.
