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Search data also shows trending shoulder season destinations for regional travellers
Expedia has released its 2025 Fall Travel Outlook report, highlighting the best times for UAE residents to secure affordable flights, alongside trending destinations shaping this season’s travel plans.
For cost-conscious flyers, November emerges as the most budget-friendly month, with fares lowest on 11 and 19 November, according to Expedia data.
The third week of November is also forecast to be the quietest travel period, particularly between 20 and 22 November, offering an opportunity for less crowded journeys.
By contrast, 1 and 10 October are expected to be the busiest travel days, while 24 November is cited as the most expensive day to fly.
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The platform notes that quieter windows provide UAE residents with the chance to explore long-haul destinations, including the US and Canada, ahead of the peak winter season.
“Fall is the sweet spot for savvy travellers,” said Melanie Fish, Head of Public Relations for Expedia Group Brands. “Not only are airfares dropping during the shoulder season, but routes are significantly quieter towards the third week of November.”
Trending destinations for UAE travellers this season
Based on holiday search data, UAE residents are continuing to favour destinations closer to home, with staycations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah remaining in demand, alongside short-haul trips to Istanbul.
Long-time autumn favourites such as London, Paris and New York also continue to rank highly.
A notable trend this season is the rise of warm-weather island getaways.
Expedia reports that searches for Thailand’s Koh Samui rose by a whopping 170% year-on-year, while Mallorca and Ibiza also saw strong growth, with increases of 65% and 55% respectively.
Culture-led city breaks have also gained momentum, with Copenhagen search volumes increasing by 145% and Prague by 55%, reflecting interest in European cities offering history, culture and lighter footfall in the off-season.
In Asia, Osaka is trending up 60%, with travellers drawn by its cultural festivals and autumn foliage.
The availability of more flights is also encouraging UAE residents to explore these seasonal hotspots, with Etihad recently launching four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Prague, and Air Arabia set to add a third daily service between Sharjah and Bangkok from 26 October, expanding seat capacity by 50%.
Expedia’s data further suggests a growing appetite among UAE travellers for once-in-a-lifetime journeys to destinations known for natural landscapes and bucket-list experiences. Searches for Iceland have increased by 60%, while interest in Niagara Falls has risen by 95%.
For more information, visit www.expedia.com