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Minister Abdulrahman Al-Kharafi stated that short holiday duration influenced travelers’ destination choices, favoring nearby locations with minimal travel time.
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Kamal Kabsha confirmed that ticket prices remain affordable and have not reached high levels typical of peak travel seasons.
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Ayman Zindah stated that residents’ reservations have surpassed 80% of available seats for travel during the national holidays.
Kuwait’s national holiday presents a perfect opportunity for citizens and residents to embark on short, budget-friendly trips, allowing them to unwind and explore new destinations without long travel hours. Many opt for nearby Gulf, Arab, or international cities to make the most of these few days of leisure.
This season, destinations like Dubai, Cairo, Jeddah, Maldives, and Rome have become top choices for travelers due to appealing offers, direct flights, and pleasant weather. Additionally, the rising demand for Umrah flights has significantly influenced travel trends, especially with Ramadan approaching.
Al-Anba spoke with travel and tourism experts who confirmed that ticket prices remain affordable and have not reached the high levels typical of peak summer travel seasons.
While many choose to travel, a significant number of citizens and residents prefer to stay in the country, enjoying the festive atmosphere, entertainment shows, fireworks, national parades, and special offers at malls and tourist spots.
Abdulrahman Al-Kharafi, a Board Member of the Federation of Travel and Tourism Offices, stated that national holidays offer an ideal opportunity for citizens and residents seeking a quick getaway. The short holiday duration influences destination choices, with travelers preferring nearby locations that offer diverse activities within a limited timeframe.
Al-Kharafi highlighted that popular travel destinations during the holiday included the Maldives, Thailand, London, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Doha, and Cairo. Despite rising demand, ticket prices remained relatively competitive. The availability of direct flights and attractive tourist packages further boosted interest in these locations.
Moreover, Al-Kharafi noted that improved weather in typically hot destinations made them more appealing for travelers. The moderate climate allowed visitors to explore natural and cultural attractions without the usual summer crowds.
Al-Kharafi emphasized that the tourism and travel sector experiences significant recovery during short holidays, as travelers seek unique experiences that balance recreation, exploration, time, and cost.
Increasing Demand
Tourism expert Kamal Kabsha noted that the national holidays encouraged many citizens and residents to travel, leading to a surge in flight and hotel bookings for nearby destinations ideal for short getaways.
Kabsha highlighted that Saudi Arabia topped the list of preferred destinations, experiencing a significant surge in demand, particularly for Umrah travel, followed by Cairo, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.
Furthermore, Kabsha noted that travelers choose destinations based on the holiday’s duration, which, at around five days, favors shorter flights. This makes Middle Eastern and North African destinations more practical and aligned with traveler preferences.
Kabsha highlighted that the high demand was influenced by the favorable climate in nearby destinations. Many Gulf and regional countries are experiencing exceptional weather, providing a strong incentive for travelers to enjoy a quick and comfortable vacation.
Importantly, Kabsha noted that despite the high demand for travel during the holiday, ticket prices remain affordable and have not reached peak travel season levels. He mentioned that fares to Cairo range from 100 to 135 dinars, to Dubai between 80 and 100 dinars, and to Jeddah between 110 and 135 dinars.
Suitable Destinations
Ayman Zindah, the Director General of Al-Salehiya World Travels, stated that the current moderate weather has encouraged Kuwaitis to travel, with top preferred destinations including the Maldives, Rome, and Frankfurt, which are ideal for short holidays of four to five days.
Zindah emphasized that Kuwaiti travelers also favored nearby Gulf destinations like Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, and Muscat for family vacations, benefiting from the pleasant weather. Additionally, coastal destinations such as Sharm El-Sheikh were among the popular choices.
Additionally, Zindah noted that expatriate communities in Kuwait, particularly Egyptians, Lebanese, and Jordanians, have planned extended national holiday trips by combining leaves, increasing their vacations to around 10 days. He highlighted the high demand for travel to these countries, with reservations surpassing 80% of available seats.
Zindah noted that demand from communities requiring longer travel times, such as India and the Philippines, remains at normal levels, as short holidays do not align with their travel preferences.
The growing demand for Umrah reservations among both citizens and residents, as the holiday presents an opportunity to perform the pilgrimage before Ramadan.
Zindah stated that current prices are moderate compared to the significant price hikes typically seen during the holy month due to high demand. Additionally, the suspension of the vaccination requirement by Saudi authorities has further encouraged travel.
In conclusion, Zindah mentioned that Damascus has emerged as a new destination capturing the interest of citizens and residents, particularly with the evolving conditions there. He noted an increase in customer inquiries from those seeking a different travel experience.
