Budget-friendly travel trends among Kuwaitis boost tourism in Europe, Asia

A growing number of Kuwaiti tourists are opting for longer yet more budget-conscious vacations this summer, with rising interest in both European and Asian destinations.

The trend coincides with the summer holiday season and the Eid al-Adha break, offering citizens and residents extended time for international travel.

According to a report published by Aviation Business, Kuwaiti travelers are increasingly drawn to destinations offering family-friendly activities and economic value.

The European cities continue to dominate the list of top searches, with Munich and London leading the way. Milan emerged as the fastest-growing destination, recording a 66.34% year-on-year increase in Kuwaiti interest, followed by Paris (40.17%), Tbilisi (19.92%), and Vienna (8.34%).

The report also highlighted significant growth in searches for Asian cities. Kuala Lumpur saw a 28.24% increase, appealing to families with its affordable modern attractions. Jakarta followed with a 22.66% rise in interest, particularly among solo travelers. Bangkok, known for its affordable accommodations and food, posted a 12.98% increase.

Other popular Asian destinations included Manila, Kochi (Japan), Dhaka, and Colombo — largely influenced by expatriates planning reunions with families during the school holidays.

Closer to home, regional cities such as Cairo, Amman, and Istanbul remain the top choices for Kuwaiti travelers within the Middle East and North Africa. Meanwhile, Casablanca and Tunis saw noteworthy growth of 7.93% and 7.72%, respectively, offering culturally rich yet nearby alternatives to long-haul destinations.

As the travel season gains momentum, the preferences of Kuwaiti tourists highlight a shift toward meaningful, cost-effective, and experience-rich travel across both hemispheres.