UAE staycation boom: residents snap up luxury hotel deals
- 360° Agency Middle East
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
Dubai: The UAE’s domestic tourism market is experiencing strong momentum this summer, with residents choosing local luxury staycations over international travel—thanks to deep discounts, premium experiences, and smart package deals.
Despite the summer heat, demand is rising as hotels roll out attractive half-board offers and focus on indoor amenities to deliver value without compromise.
High-end value at home
“Hotels are offering phenomenal value during the summer,” said Ahmed M. Soliman, Group Managing Director of TCA Group of Companies, to Gulf News. “If you compare it to European travel where a 23-square-metre room in Capri or Portofino goes for $1,500
you’re getting a super five-star resort here. Yes, the weather isn't perfect, but the product is excellent.”
This view is increasingly shared by UAE residents who prioritize meaningful experiences and cost-efficiency, making the value of staycations hard to ignore.
Focus shifts to indoor comfort
While Gulf temperatures are high, the hospitality sector is pivoting. The focus has shifted to exceptional indoor experiences, designed to reduce the impact of the weather and make premium local getaways more appealing.
Soliman emphasized that half-board options now play a big role in this value-driven trend. “It enhances the holiday experience for families and individuals by removing the extra cost of dining out,” he said.
UAE still a top destination
The Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), a UAE-headquartered group of global hotel brands, reported sustained growth in the first half of 2025. While international stays contributed to 70 percent of revenue, the UAE itself ranked as the leading destination for total revenue—ahead of Thailand, Spain, Singapore, and Italy. That demand isn’t just from global tourists, but increasingly from within the UAE.
Hotels across the UAE launch summer offers
Pullman Downtown Dubai is offering up to 20% off minimum two-night stays in its Roland-Garros suite, part of the “ALL – Accor Limitless Hotel Escape Summer Offer.”“We’ve seen strong interest in our Roland-Garros suite,” said Anna Luisa Asistio, Marketing and Communications Manager at Pullman. “Even though this year’s tournament has ended, guests can still enjoy the full immersive experience through May 2026.”
Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi is giving UAE residents 30% off stays until September 30. The offer includes access to dining experiences, fitness classes, karaoke nights, and live entertainment.
Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts has launched the ‘Exceptional Staycation Offer,’ giving UAE residents up to 40% off on Bed and Breakfast stays and up to 30% off Half Board stays. Participating properties include Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and Emirates Towers.
Atlantis The Palm offers UAE residents up to 25% off room rates with complimentary breakfast.
Atlantis The Royal gives Emirates ID holders up to 20% off rooms, suites, and penthouses.
“These are high-value luxury offerings at great prices. You don’t get it anywhere else,” Soliman told Gulf News.
Turning off-season into peak season
By repositioning their summer strategy, UAE hotels are succeeding in what was once seen as a low-demand period. With generous discounts, strong indoor offerings, and a growing appetite among residents for premium local breaks, the UAE’s luxury hospitality sector is turning summer into a domestic tourism peak.
