Skyscanner Introduces New Feature To Help UAE Travellers Secure Best Summer Deals
As the summer season heats up in the UAE, a recent study by the global travel app Skyscanner has unveiled that a significant majority (92%) of UAE residents are eager to venture abroad for their summer vacations. Yet, nearly half (49%) of them remain undecided about their holiday destinations. The reasons behind this hesitation are multifaceted, with indecision on travel dates (51%) and destinations (35%) leading the pack. Furthermore, the quest for value-for-money deals is evident, as 40% of respondents are still on the lookout for the best possible offers, and 22% are hoping for last-minute bargains. This data underscores a trend towards savvy travel planning among UAE residents this summer.
Skyscanner's analysis provides insightful tips for those still planning their summer getaways. For instance, the week of 12 August emerges as the most cost-effective period for travel, potentially offering an average saving of 11% compared to the more popular first two weeks of July. This translates to a significant reduction in expenses, especially for families, with an estimated average saving of up to Dh804 for a family of four.
The travel platform has also upgraded its Savings Generator tool, enhancing it with fresh 'best time to book' insights. This feature not only presents the average monthly prices for flights but now also visually depicts the optimal booking periods for some of the season's most sought-after destinations, alongside more affordable alternatives.
For travellers eyeing specific destinations, the tool provides tailored advice. Those looking to visit Cairo in July or London in August, for example, will find recommendations to book 10 and 4 weeks in advance, respectively. For the most economical flights, booking as much as 13 to 16 weeks ahead is suggested.
Top Value Destinations This Summer
Skyscanner's research doesn't stop at booking tips; it also highlights destinations where prices have significantly dropped, catering to bargain hunters. The top five destinations with the most substantial price decreases are:- Istanbul: 24% price drop, with round trips starting at Dh817 - Cairo: 20% price drop, with round trips starting at Dh1,300 - Manchester: 20% price drop, with round trips starting at Dh1,825 - Amman: 15% price drop, with round trips starting at Dh1,292 - Paris: 12% price drop, with round trips starting at Dh1,499
Exploring Beyond the Usual
For those 51% of UAE travellers still undecided on their summer travel dates, Skyscanner's 'Everywhere' search function offers a solution. This feature, which ranks destinations from lowest to highest price, encourages exploration of new locations at potentially lower costs than traditional holiday spots. Impressively, using this tool can save travellers up to 30% on flights, with deals to places like Jordan, Egypt, and Greece starting from as little as Dh254 for return trips this summer.
Making Summer Dreams a Reality
The research also sheds light on the sacrifices UAE travellers are willing to make to secure their summer vacations. Foregoing new clothes (51%), dining out (46%), and spending on hair or beauty treatments (41%) are among the top concessions. Skyscanner suggests that even cutting back on takeaways, a choice 39% of respondents are inclined to make, can help turn holiday aspirations into reality.
Ayoub El Mamoun, Skyscanner's Travel Trends and Destination Expert, emphasizes the company's commitment to aiding travellers in finding affordable vacations. "We know how much UAE travellers look forward to and research their summer holiday - this year perhaps more than any. Using the unique wealth of Skyscanner data, our guide to summer has been designed to help travellers make their money go further this summer; from the best time to book, to the cheapest week to travel this summer."
This summer, the UAE residents equipped with these insights and tools from Skyscanner are better positioned to navigate the complexities of holiday planning, ensuring they can achieve their dream vacations without breaking the bank.
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