The Middle East is known for its high standard of luxury experiences, serving as a key driver of growth in outbound and inbound travel markets. In fact, the region is experiencing a boom in the luxury travel market, predicted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9% until 2030. Moreover, the MENA region leads the way in adopting technologies, such as phygital initiatives, personalised user experiences, VR tours and apps to enhance the consumer journey
However, MENA’s travel landscape is not limited to luxury. Business travel, for instance, is also on the rise, experiencing 11.2 % growth in the region. Over the past year, business travel expenditures reached $17 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile, in the MENA, travel costs are increasing: the average price of business class tickets, according to Tumodo’s research, has reached $205, a change due to seasonal inflation. For context, the average economy class fare from MENA to Europe, Asia, and America is $510, while the average business class – $2,084. Understanding these dynamics can empower you to make informed travel decisions.
Getting a visa: what do you need to know?
UAE nationals (Emiratis) enjoy visa-free travel within the MENA region and to many European countries. However, the situation is more complex for expats and varies depending on their nationality and destination. Some expats may need visas for certain MENA countries, while others might not.
For Europe, visa requirements for expats depend on their country of origin, whereas for the US, all travellers, including UAE nationals and expats, require visas. In fact, European expats may be eligible for electronic visas (ESTA), while most other nationalities need to obtain standard US visas with a sticker. To avoid unnecessary stress and expenses, it’s best to research visa requirements well in advance and apply early. Consider hiring a visa agency to assist with the process for complex cases or when time is of the essence.
At the same time, the timeframe for securing an appointment at a consulate or visa centre varies by country. For instance, scheduling a US visa appointment may take many months, with dates available only in the second half of 2025. Similarly, Schengen visa application documents generally take 1-3 months to process if you schedule an appointment now. For the UK, processing time ranges from one to twenty days, with the most significant challenge being the submission of correct forms and financial documents.
To reduce visa costs, consider avoiding peak seasons: April-May and October-November.
Planning your winter holiday in advance can help you avoid the rush and save up to 50-60% on visa fees, hotels, flight tickets, and car rentals. This strategic planning can make you feel financially savvy and in control of your travel budget.
Luxury travel on a budget
When it comes to business travel, companies strive to reduce their budget through platforms like Tumodo, and often, top managers go on business trips. Here are a few tips on how to make luxury business trips more cost-effective. These tips are also suitable for classic travel.
Book in advance and check the local high season
Plan well ahead, especially when travelling to Europe or the US, as costs can rise dramatically closer to your travel date. Avoid travelling during peak times like holidays or major events at your destination when possible. Every location has different high and low seasons; taking a trip one week versus the next can result in significant savings. For necessary peak-season travel, consider using fare aggregators like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights. Many popular tourist destinations now offer apps or websites with real-time crowd-level information. This proactive approach can help you save money and enjoy a more relaxed travel experience.
Avoid hidden fees
When booking a hotel, be mindful of these often-overlooked charges:
- Resort fees: Daily charges for amenities like internet access, fitness centres, and pools are often not included in advertised room rates.
- Parking fees: These can vary depending on the hotel’s location and type.
- Early check-in/late check-out fees: Some hotels charge extra for these services.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Hotel loyalty programs like All by Accor, Atlantis Circle and Jumeirah One allow guests to earn rewards based on their stays. These programs are usually free and offer members special rates and exclusive discounts.
Work directly with travel suppliers
Use travel booking tools that connect directly to various travel suppliers. By doing so, you can often access the lowest possible fares, as agencies may prefer working with particular airlines or hotels and may charge extra for booking modifications or cancellations. Directly working with travel suppliers can help you avoid these extra charges and ensure you get the best deals.
This way, luxury travel can be affordable without sacrificing comfort or convenience. You need to plan, understand loyalty programs and hidden costs, and leverage your resources for the best travel experience. Bon voyage!
