Solo travel, also known as the rise of “Me-Mooners,” has become one of the most dynamic shifts in the tourism industry. This is particularly felt in the Middle East, with 75% of UAE travellers alone having embarked on a solo trip in the last year, and 61% considering one in the next three years. As individuals seek more reasons to travel solo, hereβs why this trend is gaining momentum.
The appeal of solo travel
From the allure of independence to the desire for personal growth, more people than ever are choosing to embark on journeys alone. Driven by a combination of shifting societal norms, personal aspirations, and increasing accessibility to destinations worldwide, hereβs what makes solo travel so appealing.
Personal freedom
Solo travellers can create their own itinerary, pace, and priorities without compromise. According to Hiltonβs 2024 trends report, 31% of solo travellers choose to go it alone so they can do what they want, when they want.Β
Changing demographics
Shifts in societal norms, such as later marriages and increased financial independence, particularly among women, have contributed to this trend. Solo travellers generally have more disposable income and less fixed responsibilities like children so are freer to venture on their own.
Accessibility
An increase in accessibility in recent years incentivising travel has meant making solo trips are easier than ever. For example, for those in Solo (Surakarta), Indonesia, visa-free/via-on-arrival (VOA) is available in 96 countries including Qatar, Japan, Italy, and Brazil opening the doors for solo exploration.
Self-discovery
Travelling alone provides a sense of accomplishment and opportunities for introspection. The same Hilton report attributed 40% of solo travellers choosing self discovery for their reason for embarking on a holiday on their own.
Travelling solo also offers unique advantages that extend beyond the joy of exploring new places including:
- Flexibility: Spontaneous decisions are easier without coordinating with a group.
- Authentic experiences: Solo travellers often engage more deeply with locals and cultural activities.
- Mental health boost: A break from routine fosters mindfulness and reduces stress.
- Skills development: Building confidence, problem-solving, and adaptability through unique challenges
Profiles of solo travellers
Solo travellers come with varying interests, goals, and travel styles. From the adventure-seeking explorer to the mindful soul searcher, understanding these profiles helps identify how their preferences shape their experiences. The solo travel community is diverse, but a few distinct profiles emerge, which tourism providers can target:
The Explorer
Preferences: Adventure travel, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and outdoor activities.
Examples: Trekking in Nepal, wildlife safaris in Kenya.
Needs: Guides for safety, curated adventure itineraries, and eco-conscious accommodations.
The Soul Searcher
Preferences: Spiritual retreats, yoga, meditation, and wellness-focused travel.
Examples: Ashrams in India, retreats in Bali.
Needs: Quiet spaces, access to wellness experts, and customisable experiences.
The Digital Nomad
Preferences: Balancing work and leisure, destinations with co-working spaces.
Examples: Lisbon, Chiang Mai, MedellΓn.
Needs: Strong Wi-Fi, affordable long-term stays, and networking opportunities.
The City Wanderer
Preferences: Immersive urban experiences, cultural landmarks, and vibrant nightlife.
Examples: Tokyo, Paris, New York.
Needs: Central accommodations, local guides, and dining recommendations.
The Budget-Conscious Traveller
Preferences: Maximising value through affordable accommodations and free activities.
Examples: Hostels in Europe, backpacking in Southeast Asia.
Needs: Shared rooms, transportation deals, and travel apps.
The Luxury Seeker
Preferences: High-end, personalised services in exotic locations.
Examples: Overwater villas in the Maldives, boutique hotels in Tuscany.
Needs: Concierge services, private tours, and exclusive dining.
Top 5 priorities of solo travellers
While there are archetypes of solo travellers, there are some priorities that are the same across the board.
- Safety first: Priority goes to secure accommodations and destinations. They want local tips and vetted experiences.
- Community options: Blend alone time with opportunities to meet other travellers, for example with group tours, shared experiences, or group dining.
- Personalised itineraries: Solo travellers often value unique, customisable packages over standardised tours.
- Technology and convenience: Embrace user-friendly platforms for booking and navigation. Highlight contactless payment options and language support tools.
- Visa and travel simplicity: Promote visa-free destinations and clear travel guidelines to remove barriers for last-minute travel decisions.
- Social media-ready experiences: Share photogenic locations, iconic moments, and storytelling opportunities so travellers can find connection digitally.
How tourism providers can cater to solo travellers
The growing prominence of solo travel presents a lucrative opportunity for the tourism industry to innovate and adapt. Hereβs how providers and operators can attract and create lasting connections with these travellers.
- Curated packages: Offer itineraries designed specifically for solo adventurers, with activities that balance solitude and social engagement.
- Solo-friendly accommodation: Create options for single rooms without a surcharge or emphasise communal spaces like lounges or kitchens.
- Safety enhancements: Partner with local operators to ensure secure, verified experiences, particularly with accommodation and activities.
- Community engagement: Provide group tours or meet-ups that let solo travellers connect if they choose to while maintaining independence.
- Content and marketing: Highlight stories of solo travel to inspire potential customers, showcasing diverse experiences.
- Flexibility in booking: Offer flexible cancellation policies and easy changes to accommodate their dynamic travel plans.
Solo travel is no longer a niche but a powerful force in the tourism sector. With tailored services, tourism providers can not only meet the demands of Me-Mooners but also foster loyalty and advocacy within this growing segment.
Also read: 2025 travel trends: 90s nostalgia meets advanced AIΒ
