A New Year, A New Set of Travel Desires

Expedia’s inaugural Unpack ’25 report reveals the latest travel trends shaping the year ahead. With insights from UAE residents, the report highlights the evolving motivations and destinations of travellers worldwide.

More Than Just a Vacation

  • Goods Getaways: Inspired by social media, travellers are now planning trips to acquire unique products.
  • Detour Destinations: Forty-nine percent of UAE travellers are likely to explore less crowded locales near popular tourist hotspots.
  • Set-Jetting: Films and television series continue to influence travel decisions.

Key Trends Shaping 2025

The report identifies six significant travel trends:

  1. Detour Destinations: Discover hidden gems near popular tourist hotspots.
  2. Goods Getaways: Acquire unique products through curated travel experiences.
  3. Set-Jetting: Travel through entertainment, inspired by films and TV series.
  4. Natural Phenomena: Witness eclipses, stargazing opportunities, and bioluminescent plankton sightings.
  5. Convenience and Relaxation: Prioritise all-inclusive packages and hotel-based dining.
  6. Celebrity Chef Experiences: Enjoy culinary adventures led by renowned chefs.

Top Trending Detour Destinations

  • Reims, France (near Paris)
  • Brescia, Italy (near Milan)
  • Cozumel, Mexico (near Cancun)
  • Santa Barbara, California, USA (near Los Angeles)
  • Waikato, New Zealand (near Auckland)
  • Girona, Spain (near Barcelona)
  • Fukuoka, Japan (near Tokyo)
  • Abu Dhabi, UAE (near Dubai)
  • Krabi, Thailand (near Phuket)
  • Canmore, Alberta, Canada (near Calgary)

Popular Set-Jetting Destinations

  • Paris, inspired by “Emily in Paris”
  • Dubai, inspired by “The Real Housewives of Dubai”
  • Japan, inspired by “Shogun”
  • Thailand, inspired by “The White Lotus”
  • Madrid, inspired by “Money Heist”
  • Egypt, inspired by “Tomb Raider”
  • New York, inspired by “And Just Like That”
  • South Korea, inspired by “Squid Game”

Rehan Asad, vice president of global markets at Expedia, emphasises the company’s commitment to merging technology with travel. The Unpack report provides valuable insights into traveller preferences and industry innovations.