The research, conducted by Disney Destinations, home to the world’s most magical entertainment and recreational destinations, examined UAE families’ key motivators and preferences and the deferring spending habits of families. Some of the key findings were:
Children are the biggest influence of holiday choices
63 percent of respondents set aside AED10,000 or more each year for vacations
15 percent expect to spend more than AED50,000
58 percent of families look for ‘all inclusive’ package vacation offers
The survey also found that Western respondents reported being also driven by word-of-mouth, or friends’ recommendations (44 percent). Notably, 36 percent of male respondents were influenced by their parents and family members when booking their family holidays, compared to only 18 percent of female respondents. Social media is quoted as influencing a fifth of respondents’ holiday choices.
More than half (58 percent) of UAE residents polled look for all-inclusive vacation options, which include convenience elements such as flights, transfers, F&B, with 34 percent of respondents also noted the importance of having activities and options to suit the interest of every family member when considering vacation options.
83 percent of respondents revealed they book their vacations themselves online, with 15 percent seeking advice from travel agents and 9 percent using a travel agent to fulfill their booking. A substantial number of families seek a variety of activities, which cater to the age and interests of each relative, with one-third (34 percent) stating this is a priority consideration when planning their vacations.
Peter Welch, VP Sales & Marketing Disney Destinations said, “It’s not surprising to find that an overwhelming number of families actively seek dynamic vacations with enough variety in activities to suit every member of the family. Disney Destinations offers something for all ages. From world-class theme parks and attractions to entertainment, dining and leisure activities, we’re committed to ensuring every guest can enjoy their ultimate experience and share in meaningful moments with loved ones,” Welch continued.
When it comes to family holiday budgets, the survey reveals the younger age demographic are the biggest spenders, with 18 percent aged 18-29 spending AED 50,000-75,000, compared to only 3 percent of those aged 30-39.
“We all see the value in enjoying vacations together with our families and loved ones. Disney Parks is proud to create destinations where millions of guests make magical memories each year,” concluded Welch.
Licensed Psychologist, Dr. Elena Andrioti, also commented on the value of creating magical moments, “Spending some good quality time during family vacations can have a huge impact on a child’s social, emotional and cognitive development. A family vacation is a great opportunity for parents to raise happy, well-adjusted children as it gives them the opportunity to focus on showing their children that they are loved, important and that they have their full undivided attention. The change in environment and the time spent together allows all members of the family to voice their thoughts and feelings, develop strong bonds, connect and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. So, enjoy the time together, explore a new space, eat together, laugh together, cry together and simply let go of all of your stressors,” Dr. Andrioti concluded.
Disney Destinations provides a range of the world’s most magical entertainment and recreational destinations, including Disneyland Paris, Europe’s number one tourist destination; boasting two spectacular theme parks and 8 Disney hotels and resorts; Orlando’s Walt Disney World, home to four world-class theme parks, more than 30 hotel resort options, plus a unique mix of shops, restaurants and entertainment at Disney Springs; and Disney Cruise Line, an industry leader and home to family cruising and entertainment for all ages, allowing guests to explore stunning locations including the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Europe and more.
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector.
Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC).
She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book.
She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter.
Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler.
It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
