New data from Skyscanner's Travel Trends Report 2026 reveals that travellers from the UAE are increasingly choosing lesser-known destinations for their holidays next year, with Bulgaria’s Varna and Spain’s Bilbao leading the surge in interest.
The study indicates a significant shift in spending and volume: a total of 61 per cent of people plan to take more overseas holidays in 2026 than in the current year, while 54 per cent have budgeted to spend more per person on those trips. UAE travellers are increasingly using flight cost (67 per cent) and accommodation cost (60 per cent) as key factors when planning their getaways.
UAE travellers are turning their attention to destinations that offer something fresh and often more affordable than traditional European hubs.
Varna, Bulgaria saw a massive 344 per cent year-on-year growth in interest, establishing itself as an affordable European alternative with golden beaches and Roman ruins on the Black Sea.
Bilbao, Spain followed with 167 per cent growth, drawing travellers with its artistic Basque culture, bold design and acclaimed culinary appeal.
Other destinations showing strong trending growth include Paro (Bhutan), noted for its spiritual charm and sustainable model, and Basel (Switzerland), which is becoming more accessible due to new direct flights from Dubai.
Further demand is noted for cultural hubs like Beijing and fashion capital Milan, alongside tropical favourites Krabi (Thailand) and Vienna (Austria).
The report also identifies the top destinations offering the best value based on substantial drops in average flight prices:
Davao (Philippines) leads the value charts with a 21 per cent drop in average flight price, offering budget explorers a launchpad for island adventure.
Salalah (Oman) follows closely with a 20 per cent price drop, making the seasonal favourite with its misty hills and waterfalls ideal for summer travellers seeking green getaways.
Phuket (Thailand), Manila (Philippines) and Zanzibar (Tanzania) also appear on the list, demonstrating that softer fares combined with strong currency value in destinations like Thailand and the Philippines are fuelling demand.
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