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The UAE is expected to draw a large number of visitors during the Eid Al Adha break, thanks to several activities families can enjoy, experts across the UAE's hospitality and entertainment sectors have noted.
In addition, residents across the UAE will also be making the most of the long Eid break, opting for short staycations with their friends and family.
Hotels across the country have geared up to welcome the influx of visitors, with many reporting that their rooms have been fully booked for the holidays. Many entertainment venues such as theme parks have also launched a series of special offers that have been carefully designed for families and large groups of visitors.
"Given the recent trend whereby we have seen a steady increase in visitors to the UAE from both existing and emerging markets, we definitely expect a lot of people to come over from abroad or stay on in the country during the Eid break," said Laurent A. Voivenel, senior vice-president of operations and development for the Middle East, Africa and India at Swiss-Belhotel International.
"No other single destination in the region is as attractive or diverse in its offering as the UAE," he added.
"There is a lot to see and do in the UAE during Eid, from dazzling fireworks to thrilling theme parks and unbeatable shopping promotions. Staycations are extremely popular as a lot of families prefer to stay back to explore the local hotels and attractions that gives them a sense of escape without going too far. We also see a lot of relatives and friends visiting people staying in the UAE, therefore, most hotels are making extensive preparations to make the Eid celebrations memorable."
Similarly, Glenn Nobbs, general manager at Copthorne Hotel Dubai, says the hotel is prepared for a sharp increase in visitor numbers. "While Dubai attracts visitors globally all year round, we find that during Eid our guests are usually from other emirates and the greater GCC region."
Nobbs also said that many families will be interested in shopping, and spending time together on the beach or by the pool.
Dubai has also cemented its position as an attractive theme park destination, and several such entertainment venues have announced special deals to tempt visitors into checking out their offerings, if they haven't already done so.
"We are looking forward to welcoming families and friends that will be celebrating this Eid Al Adha in the UAE. We expect that visitors will be looking for family-friendly activities to suit different age groups. Dubai Parks and Resorts is a complete family destination with four themed parks - Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and Legoland Water Park - as well as a themed retail and dinning district known as Riverland Dubai," a spokesperson from Dubai Parks and Resorts said, who added that there are special Eid packages on offer.
Moussa El Hayek, COO at Al Bustan Centre & Residence, predicts that a good number of travellers will be coming into the UAE from the GCC region, specifically Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman. "Movement within the UAE is also expected with those from the Northern Emirates and other emirates flocking to Dubai as more events and activities are set to lure visitors."
He added: "Since there are a lot of promotions during Eid Al Adha holidays, families and travellers alike will be taking advantage of the shopping mall offers and spending quality time on staycations, leisure and entertainment activities."
"Eid presents our industry with an incredible opportunity to deliver truly cultural and memorable experiences. It is the perfect time to showcase the rich Arabic traditions along with the terrific Arabic cuisine and heritage. Since Eid is a family festivity, people are looking to have a great time together discovering and enjoying the destination's attractions while relaxing and having fun," Voivenel noted.
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