Travellers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to reshape global tourism trends through strong interest in AI-powered travel tools. The 2026 Ticket to Travel findings show a major rise in confidence toward AI platforms that support accommodation booking. This shift signals clear trust in technology that simplifies choices and provides fast solutions.
According to the latest insights, 69% of travellers across both nations feel comfortable booking accommodation through AI. This strong acceptance marks a turning point for the region. Travellers now choose tools that save time and deliver personalised support from the first search to the final booking.
AI Takes Centre Stage in Travel Planning
AI adoption grows rapidly across the region. The report shows that 72% of respondents from both countries have used AI during their holiday planning. ChatGPT leads as the favourite tool for 76% of users. Gemini follows closely with strong interest from younger demographics.
Travellers use AI to compare destinations, explore hotel options, and review activity choices. They also use it to create personalised plans that match their interests. This shift shows how travellers rely on digital tools to make smarter decisions with less effort.
Confidence in AI booking continues to rise. The data reveals that 71% of UAE travellers and 67% of Saudi travellers now trust AI to finalise their accommodation bookings. These figures highlight a new era where technology supports every stage of the journey.
Travel Expectations Rise Ahead of 2026 Holidays
Travel demand increases strongly in the region. The report confirms that 84% of UAE residents and 83% of Saudi nationals plan to take the same number or more holidays in 2026. This growing appetite for travel encourages more use of AI tools that simplify complex planning.
Travellers plan a wide mix of trips. On average, they expect three domestic trips, two short-haul holidays, and two long-haul journeys. This variety increases the need for technology that can quickly analyse options and tailor recommendations.
Multi-country trips also grow in popularity. The research shows that 75% of respondents will visit more than one country during a single holiday. Italy, Switzerland, France, and Turkey stand out as top choices, showing continued interest in Europe’s landmarks, landscapes, and cultural attractions.
Luxury Travel Evolves With the Rise of “Lux-Scaping”
Luxury travel continues to expand with exciting new trends. “Lux-scaping” leads these shifts. Travellers choose premium stays either at the beginning or end of a trip to enhance comfort. Over 80% of UAE and Saudi travellers have embraced this trend at least once. Many younger travellers choose a luxury hotel stay as a mood-setting start or a restful final stop.
According to the report, 45% of UAE travellers and 43% of Saudi travellers say they feel more refreshed when they end a trip with a luxury stay. This trend highlights the desire for elevated experiences that support wellbeing and relaxation.
Passion-Driven Travel Gains Strong Momentum
Another major trend, known as passion pursuits, dominates travel choices for 2026. Travellers plan trips that revolve around personal hobbies, sports, culture, or adventure. The research shows that 82% of respondents in both nations have travelled for a specific passion.
Sports tourism leads the trend at 53%. Adventure travel follows at 48%. Cultural experiences rank high at 43%. These strong numbers reflect a growing desire for travel that offers meaning rather than simple leisure.
AI tools help travellers find passion-driven activities by matching trips with personal interests. This feature strengthens the relevance of AI in the planning process.
What Matters Most in Accommodation Choices
Customer service remains the highest priority for travellers. The report shows that 88% of respondents from both nations value strong service above all else. Cleanliness ranks next at 87%, followed closely by location at 85%.
Travellers also show strong interest in family-friendly services. The data reveals that 87% prefer accommodation that supports family needs. Dining options hold equal importance, showing how travellers favour convenience and comfort.
Many travellers also choose flexibility over cost savings. About 41% say they are willing to pay more for early check-in or preferred room locations. These preferences highlight the region’s strong demand for personalised hospitality.
Sustainability Becomes a Key Priority
Sustainability continues to influence travel decisions in the region. According to the report, 83% of travellers consider the environmental impact of their trips. This emphasis supports a global shift toward eco-friendly travel and responsible tourism.
Loyalty programs also affect decision-making. The research shows that 39% of UAE travellers and 36% of Saudi travellers choose their accommodation based on loyalty benefits. This figure rises above the broader EMEA average, showing strong brand engagement across the region.
A Tech-Driven Future for Middle Eastern Tourism
The findings clearly show how technology transforms travel in the Middle East. AI now plays a major role in research, comparison, and booking. Lux-scaping and passion-driven trips continue to grow. Sustainability gains importance each year. Travellers expect smooth digital experiences and personalised support across all stages of the journey.
Hotels and travel companies must now upgrade systems, improve service standards, and adopt smarter digital solutions. The future of travel in the UAE and Saudi Arabia will rely on technology that delivers clarity, comfort, and convenience.
Travellers across the region will enter 2026 with higher expectations, stronger digital habits, and deeper interest in meaningful travel. AI stands ready to guide every step of that journey.
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