American Express survey shows UAE...

"Experiential gifts" in travel also trending

There is a strong demand for luxury and personalised travel experiences among UAE consumers, with "experiential gifting" proving highly popular, a new survey reveals.

American Express Middle East’s Trendex Survey highlights travel, shopping and entertainment trends for the upcoming spring holiday season in the UAE.

Saud Swar, American Express Middle East's Chief Business Officer, said: "Our Trendex Survey reveals a strong interest among UAE consumers for high-end travel, with respondents willing to spend more on leisure and premium services, exploring new destinations and visiting family and friends.

“Physical gifts are popular, but we are also seeing a strong interest in experiential gifts, particularly in entertainment and travel."

1. Luxury and Personalised Experiences Prioritised
With a new holiday season approaching, 97% of UAE Consumers plan to travel during the upcoming spring holidays and spend an average of AED7,764 (US$2,113).Key motivations for travelling include leisure (61%), exploring new destinations (56%) and visiting family and friends (48%). While on their trip, travellers are willing to spend more for personalised experiences (78%), private transportation (74%) and luxury accommodations (66%).

2. Holiday Shopping: Strong interest in travel and entertainment experiences
Experiences are emerging as highly sought-after presents. While physical gifts still hold appeal, there's a strong trend toward experiential gifting, with 74% of UAE consumers surveyed preferring to receive an experience rather than a product as a gift. Among those who plan to gift experiences, entertainment (68%), travel (66%) and food/beverage experiences (56%) top the list of preferred experiential gifts.

3. Holiday Entertainment: Desire for togetherness
The survey also revealed a strong emphasis on connection, with respondents prioritising time and celebrations with loved ones. More than 52% of respondents strongly agreed that holidays make them want to be with family and friends, 62% want to host gatherings at home and 48% want to host family and friends for extended holiday stays.

In terms of engaging experiences, holiday festivals and markets top the list of planned activities for 58% of the respondents, highlighting a desire for immersive and engaging experiences.

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