Published on
September 20, 2025
UAE residents are increasingly embracing the autumn travel surge, with popular destinations such as the US, Spain, Finland, Morocco, Austria, Hong Kong, and Portugal seeing a notable rise in bookings. This shift is driven by the desire to escape the scorching summer heat and take advantage of milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and affordable accommodations in these sought-after locations. As the region’s peak travel season transitions from summer to autumn, more residents are opting for seasonal getaways that offer both cooler climates and diverse cultural experiences, making this the perfect time to explore these global destinations.
The Great Autumn Migration: UAE Residents Opt for Seasonal Escapes as Travel Boom Hits
As the fall season approaches, the UAE is experiencing a surge in travel bookings that’s reshaping autumn travel patterns. Dubbed the “Great Autumn Migration,” residents are now flocking to destinations during this newly emerging peak travel period. Historically, the months between school holidays and UAE National Day were spent locally, but this trend is shifting. Travel agencies are noting a marked increase in outbound trips, reflecting a global pattern where travelers are trading summer’s intense heat for the milder weather and quieter atmosphere of the shoulder season.
In response, travel providers are offering season-specific packages that cater to this growing demand. For example, a three-night break in Munich at the Platzl Hotel, including return flights, is priced at Dh4,350 per person. Alternatively, travelers can head to Madrid for Dh4,700 per person, enjoying a stay at the VP Plaza España Design, complete with accommodations and flights. The demand is substantial, with luxury travel agency Virtuoso reporting a 30% rise in autumn bookings and a 39% sales increase compared to the previous year.
This autumn trend isn’t limited to the UAE. Globally, there’s a noticeable uptick in autumn travel bookings. In the United States, vacation rental platform HomeToGo has recorded a 27% year-on-year increase in autumn getaway searches. Younger travelers, particularly Gen Z, are also embracing the autumn season, with a 25% rise in Airbnb searches for leaf-peeping trips.
The surge in autumn travel is being driven by several factors, one of the most significant being the changing climate. While summer vacations in destinations like Italy or Spain used to be defined by hot days under the sun, recent heatwaves, wildfires, and unpredictable weather patterns have led many to rethink their travel plans. Southern Europe, often experiencing temperatures surpassing 30 degrees, and sometimes reaching 40, has become too hot for many Gulf residents. In fact, this June, Europe experienced over 1,500 heat-related deaths, which highlights the risks of summer travel.
Moreover, overtourism has led to overcrowded tourist destinations during peak summer months, creating an aversion to high-season travel. Famous cities like Venice and Barcelona have introduced policies aimed at curbing the volume of visitors. Venice, for example, implemented day-tripper fees, and Barcelona reduced cruise ship arrivals, even removing certain bus routes to reduce congestion at popular sites. These initiatives are prompting travelers to shift their vacations to quieter months, such as autumn, when they can enjoy fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
Smaller or emerging destinations are also capitalizing on the autumn trend. Armenia is actively promoting its October festivals, ballooning events, and grape harvest celebrations, all designed to showcase the region’s pleasant autumn weather, clear skies, and fewer tourists. This strategy is attracting visitors looking to experience less-traveled destinations at a time of year when crowds are thinner, and the weather is more comfortable.
Industry forecasts suggest that this autumn trend is not just a passing phenomenon. Reports for 2025 indicate that global travel demand will remain strong, with travelers continuing to spread their trips across more months of the year. For high-frequency travelers and families in the Gulf, the shoulder season offers numerous advantages, including better accommodation availability, more pleasant weather in certain destinations, and the ability to avoid summer crowds.
Spain: Flamenco and Culture Await
Spain is an ideal autumn destination, offering a vibrant cultural experience. After a summer of intense heat, nothing beats relaxing on Madrid’s lively Plaza, sipping a drink and soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Travel packages to Madrid start at Dh4,700 per person, including three nights at the VP Plaza España Design and flights. The Spanish capital is rich in royal palaces, cultural sites, and halal dining options, making it a perfect destination for Gulf travelers.
Finland: The Magic of Lapland
For a more unique autumn experience, Finland’s Lapland offers an unforgettable adventure. For Dh19,300 per person, travelers can experience the Northern Lights, go on a husky safari, ride reindeer, and enjoy snowmobiles in a five-night package, complete with transfers and meals. This winter wonderland offers the perfect escape before climate change alters the region’s landscape.
Morocco: A Mountain Retreat
Morocco’s Kasbah du Toubkal, located in the High Atlas Mountains, offers a serene retreat for those seeking peace and tranquility. Accessible only by foot or donkey, the sustainable hotel provides front-row views of North Africa’s highest mountain. The property is just 45 minutes from Marrakech and offers all-inclusive stays, including meals and hikes. Starting from GBP166 per person per night, it’s an ideal family-friendly destination with rich cultural experiences.
Austria: Nature and Wellness
Salzburg, Austria, offers the perfect autumn getaway for those seeking a blend of nature and relaxation. A seven-night stay at Hotel Lürzerhof, priced at €1,420 per person, includes guided hikes, e-bike rentals, wellness treatments, and gourmet dining. Autumn in Salzburg means alpine hikes during the day and rejuvenating sauna sessions at night.
Hong Kong: Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival in Hong Kong is a magical experience, offering vibrant street lanterns and cultural celebrations. A hotel package in Hong Kong starts from HKD 2,100 per night, which includes a luxurious stay with lounge access and breakfast. For Gulf travelers, halal dining options are available, making this a perfect autumn trip.
Portugal: Discover the Douro Valley
Portugal’s Douro Valley is another prime autumn destination. Octant Hotels’ first Douro Festival (24–26 Oct 2025) offers a two-night stay starting at €3,531 for two. This package includes festival access, meals, and full accommodation, providing an authentic experience of the region’s beauty and culture.
UAE residents are flocking to popular autumn destinations like the US, Spain, Finland, Morocco, Austria, Hong Kong, and Portugal, drawn by cooler weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable travel options. This surge in travel reflects the region’s growing trend of seeking seasonal escapes after the summer heat.
As autumn travel becomes more popular, it presents a unique opportunity to explore new destinations at a time when the weather is ideal, crowds are smaller, and prices are more affordable. The Great Autumn Migration is not just a trend—it’s a shift in how people are approaching travel, embracing the quieter, more pleasant shoulder season as their new prime time for getting away.
