Skyscanner reveals 10 trending destinations for UAE travellers in 2026

UAE travellers are set to cast their nets wider in 2026, exploring smaller and lesser-known corners of the world, with Skyscanner’s newly released Travel Trends Report revealing emerging favourites such as Bulgaria’s seaside city of Varna and Spain’s culture-packed Bilbao.

Skyscanner data shows that 61% of UAE residents plan to take more holidays next year compared to 2025, and more than half (54%) are ready to spend more per person on their trips. 

The trends point to a growing appetite for new experiences and destinations beyond the usual hotspots.

Varna, perched on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast and known for its golden beaches and Roman ruins, tops the list with searches soaring 344%, while Bilbao follows closely with a 167% surge, drawing art lovers to its Basque streets lined with bold architecture and world-class museums.