The travel industry has always been one of the most dynamic sectors, continuously reshaped by global trends, cultural shifts, and changing consumer expectations. Few professionals understand these changes as deeply as Sapna Aidasani, Director of Marketing at Pluto Travel Dubai, who has spent years helping UAE residents and GCC travelers craft journeys that balance adventure, comfort, and cultural authenticity.
In a conversation that sheds light on today’s travel behaviors, Sapna highlights how travelers are rethinking destinations, the growing importance of local cultural experiences, and why comprehensive travel planning — from visas to insurance — is more critical than ever.
Summer Travel Trends: Why Europe Tops the List
According to Sapna, European destinations remain the top choice for UAE and GCC travelers during the summer. After two years of restrictions and closed borders, the pent-up demand for Europe has been extraordinary. Countries like Turkey, Switzerland, France (Paris), and the Netherlands (Amsterdam) top the list for 2022 and beyond.
What makes Europe so appealing? It’s not just the cooler climate compared to the Gulf’s summer heat. Many travelers crave the vibrant cultural mix, scenic landscapes, and immersive city life that Europe offers. From Swiss Alps retreats to French café culture, Europe provides a refreshing change of pace.
Interestingly, short-haul destinations like Bali and Thailand are also seeing increased demand, particularly for family getaways and Eid holidays. “Travelers are very specific about timing,” Sapna explains. “Eid breaks in July and August summers are peak booking seasons, and we see bulk requests during these periods.”
The Rise of Cultural and Semi-Luxury Travel
Travel, in Sapna’s words, is no longer just about ticking landmarks off a list. “Travelers want authenticity. They want to immerse themselves in the country’s culture, traditions, and heritage,” she says.
This shift has given rise to what Sapna describes as semi-luxury travel — curated experiences that combine comfort and exclusivity with the chance to enjoy genuine local culture. Instead of large group tours, travelers increasingly seek boutique stays, guided cultural excursions, and culinary explorations that reveal the “real” side of a destination.
For instance, rather than a standard city tour in Paris, many families now opt for wine estate visits in Bordeaux, artisan workshops, or local cooking classes. In Bali, yoga retreats and traditional dance performances offer experiences that go beyond beaches and resorts.
Insurance: A Non-Negotiable in the Post-Covid Era
If there is one lesson the pandemic has reinforced, it is the need for travel insurance. Many travelers once considered insurance an optional add-on, but today it has become an essential part of trip planning.
“At Pluto Travel, we don’t just sell a holiday package,” Sapna emphasizes. “We provide end-to-end service, which means ensuring clients are covered against unexpected disruptions. That includes Covid coverage, cancellation options, and health support during their travels.”
This proactive approach not only provides peace of mind but also reflects a growing industry-wide trend: travelers want security and transparency, knowing their investment is protected.
Visa Processes and Last-Minute Travel
One of the unique advantages of being a UAE resident is the ease of visa access. With e-visas and visa-on-arrival facilities available in many destinations, travelers can now plan holidays with much shorter notice.
“In many cases,” Sapna says, “families can finalize their holiday plans just a week before departure. They don’t have to wait months for visa approvals, and they save on hefty costs that travelers from other regions often face.”
This flexibility has created a rise in spontaneous travel. Weekend getaways to Georgia, short trips to Maldives, or city breaks in Europe are increasingly common, showing how travelers in the UAE value both convenience and variety.
The Demand Surge After Covid
The most striking trend post-pandemic has been the resurgence in travel demand. Sapna notes that the appetite for holidays has grown manifold since 2019.
“For two years, people were grounded. They realized the true value of travel — not just as leisure but as a way of reconnecting with loved ones, discovering new perspectives, and taking a break from routine.”
This realization has led to what many in the industry call “revenge travel” — the urge to make up for lost time by traveling more frequently and to more far-flung destinations. Airlines, hotels, and travel companies have all reported record bookings, particularly during school holidays and festive breaks.
Evolving Traveler Expectations
As travel patterns evolve, so do expectations. Sapna points out a few key changes Pluto Travel has noticed among clients:
- Flexibility over rigidity – Travelers want options to reschedule or cancel without penalties.
- Health-conscious choices – Destinations with good healthcare infrastructure and safety standards are prioritized.
- Personalized itineraries – Families and individuals prefer customized plans instead of standard packages.
- Sustainable preferences – Eco-friendly stays and responsible tourism are gaining traction among younger travelers.
The Role of Travel Consultants Today
In the age of online booking portals, one might assume the role of a travel consultant is diminishing. But Sapna argues the opposite.
“Travel consultants today are not just booking agents. We are experience architects. Clients come to us for peace of mind, insider knowledge, and a seamless journey. From arranging last-minute visas to curating niche experiences, our role is more important than ever.”
With ever-changing regulations, health advisories, and airline policies, professional guidance helps travelers avoid costly mistakes. For instance, understanding baggage rules, connecting flight complexities, or local Covid requirements can make the difference between a smooth holiday and a stressful one.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel from the UAE
As we look to the future, Sapna believes that travel from the UAE and GCC will only grow stronger. The region’s diverse expatriate base, combined with rising disposable incomes and world-class air connectivity, makes it one of the most important outbound travel markets globally.
She predicts:
- Growth in adventure travel — safaris, treks, and nature-based itineraries.
- Continued demand for Europe during summers.
- Rise of digital nomads using UAE as a hub while working remotely.
- Family-oriented cultural packages, especially during festive breaks.
Pluto Travel is positioning itself to lead this transformation, with Sapna at the forefront of marketing strategies that highlight authentic experiences, customer-first service, and innovative travel solutions.