As the summer of 2025 unfolds, UAE travelers are breaking away from traditional, jam-packed itineraries and instead gravitating towards calm, mindful holidays. Rather than chasing packed tourist spots or rushing through multiple cities, residents are opting for wellness retreats, cultural immersion, and extended stays in lesser-known destinations. This shift is reshaping how travel is perceived—transforming vacations into deeply personal experiences focused on health, rest, and connection.

A growing number of UAE residents are exploring “calmcations” and “slowcations,” travel trends that emphasize serenity, wellness, and meaningful experiences over crowded sightseeing. The term calmcation refers to holidays centered on relaxation, mental clarity, and self-care—often involving nature, spa therapies, yoga, and digital detoxing. Popular destinations for this include serene coastal towns, forest retreats, and islands with wellness resorts. These vacations offer travelers a chance to reset, both physically and emotionally.

Meanwhile, slowcations focus on quality over quantity. Instead of hopping across countries or visiting multiple cities in a week, people are choosing to stay in one place for longer—immersing themselves in the local rhythm of life. This form of travel allows for authentic experiences like cooking classes, community engagement, exploring regional traditions, and simply enjoying downtime in a quiet environment.

One rising trend within this lifestyle is “townsizing”—choosing smaller, lesser-known towns over bustling metropolises. UAE residents are increasingly booking month-long getaways in destinations like Abha in Saudi Arabia, the valleys of Georgia, or picturesque spots in Armenia and Morocco. These places provide a cooler climate, affordable living, rich culture, and a much-needed escape from the urban grind—making them ideal for long-term, stress-free stays.

Back home, staycations are also experiencing a surge. With rising airfares and global travel becoming increasingly expensive, many UAE residents are finding solace in local resorts and luxury hotels. Coastal retreats, desert resorts, and city escapes are offering highly competitive deals, often starting at just AED 99 per night. These offer high-end experiences—private beach access, fine dining, spa treatments, and family-friendly activities—without the hassle of long-distance travel.

Another trend gaining momentum is the “workcation.” Professionals are combining remote work with leisure, spending weekdays in scenic destinations while working online, and exploring locally during evenings and weekends. This blending of work and travel has been made easier by the rise of flexible work policies and digital nomad visas. Countries like Georgia and Thailand, which offer strong internet infrastructure and affordable cost of living, have become hot spots for UAE residents looking for a change of scenery without compromising their careers.

The shift toward calm, slower travel is not just about convenience—it reflects a broader change in values. Modern travelers are prioritizing mental health, personal growth, and sustainability. Instead of racing through landmarks, they are slowing down to appreciate moments, indulge in wellness, and explore cultural authenticity. This is especially relevant in a post-pandemic world where burnout and digital fatigue are common.

These new preferences are not just shaping where UAE residents go, but how they travel. Rather than checking in at crowded resorts or joining large tours, they are choosing boutique accommodations, eco-friendly lodges, and offbeat experiences. Activities like hiking, forest bathing, stargazing, meditation, and farm-to-table dining are replacing traditional amusement parks and shopping sprees.

Travel experts say this movement is also being driven by social media fatigue. The pressure to capture perfect Instagram-worthy moments is giving way to personal satisfaction and meaningful engagement. For many, the goal now is not to impress followers but to return home feeling rested, inspired, and connected to something deeper.

In addition, financial considerations are playing a key role. With inflation impacting global travel, UAE families are choosing vacations that offer greater value for money. Small towns and alternative destinations often provide rich experiences at lower costs compared to mainstream tourist spots. By spending longer periods in these places, travelers can also stretch their budgets while enjoying a deeper cultural experience.

There are also environmental motivations behind this shift. Conscious travelers are seeking to reduce their carbon footprint by avoiding multiple short flights, choosing train travel where possible, and supporting local businesses instead of global chains. Slow travel often results in fewer emissions, less waste, and more sustainable tourism overall.

Ultimately, this travel evolution signals a deeper, more thoughtful approach to how vacations are planned and experienced. Whether it’s a forest retreat in Bali, a mountaintop home in Georgia, or a weekend staycation in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE residents are choosing to unplug, unwind, and embrace a slower pace of life. This summer, the most luxurious escape isn’t about extravagance or excitement—it’s about calm, clarity, and connection.