Eid al-Adha is just around the corner, and many residents in the UAE are gearing up for a much-anticipated holiday. As the month of Dhu Al Qa’dah progresses, the excitement builds for the upcoming break, which is expected to provide a generous opportunity for travel and leisure. With the holiday dates still subject to moon sightings and the Islamic Hijri calendar, predictions suggest that Eid al-Adha will commence on either Thursday, June 5, or Friday, June 6, 2025.
According to a recent report by Khaleej Times, there is a notable trend among UAE residents favoring vacations in Europe this Eid. Countries like Switzerland, Italy, Latvia, Germany, and Budapest are becoming increasingly popular due to their cooler climates and iconic landmarks. Travel experts have observed that many residents prefer to spend eight to ten days exploring multiple cities, maximizing their holiday experience.
Interestingly, Japan is also emerging as a dream destination for those looking to travel abroad. The allure of cultural experiences and unique attractions is driving this trend, making it a top choice for many families. Meanwhile, affordable travel options in Asia, including Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bali, and Malaysia, remain favorites among families who seek a blend of beach culture and vibrant experiences.
As for the European destinations, the smooth visa process for countries like Switzerland and Latvia has significantly contributed to their popularity, accounting for approximately 35 to 40% of bookings. Notably, nearly 60% of these bookings are made by families, while women’s trips have seen a 15% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, group tours have risen by 10%, indicating a shift in travel preferences.
When it comes to vacation categories, the top luxury destinations include Switzerland, France, and Japan, while cultural vacation spots feature Turkey, Bali, and Malaysia. Affordable destinations are represented by Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, with emerging favorites including Latvia, Morocco, Uzbekistan, and AlUla.
In terms of budget, most travelers are planning to spend between AED 3,500 and AED 5,500 per person. Many are on the lookout for affordable luxury, seeking comfortable accommodations and curated cultural activities. With flight bookings available until May 15, 2025, travel is generally expected to take place from June 5 to June 9, 2025.
For those considering travel to closer destinations, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Baku, and Uzbekistan are gaining traction due to their proximity, making them appealing options for short getaways.
As the holiday approaches, residents are reminded of the importance of planning ahead. The precise dates for Eid al-Adha will depend on when Dhu Al Hijjah begins, which could lead to variations in holiday length. If Dhu Al Hijjah starts on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, the holiday would run from Thursday, June 5, to Sunday, June 8, providing a four-day weekend. In this scenario, those looking to extend their time off could book three additional days of leave, resulting in a nine-day holiday.
Conversely, if Dhu Al Hijjah begins on Thursday, May 29, 2025, the Eid al-Adha break would commence on Friday, June 6, leading to a four-day weekend from Friday, June 6, to Monday, June 9. In this case, booking four days off would allow for a ten-day holiday.
It’s crucial for employees to check their employment contracts regarding annual leave policies, especially concerning what is known as "sandwich leave"—taking leave days around public holidays. Some companies may allow employees to retain a day of annual leave if it coincides with a public holiday, but this practice is not universal. Therefore, it’s advisable to clarify such details with employers ahead of time.
As residents finalize their plans for Eid al-Adha, the excitement for travel and celebration is palpable. With a variety of destinations to choose from and the potential for extended holidays, this year’s Eid promises to be a memorable occasion for many in the UAE.
