In-store booking value increases 21% in UAE: dnata

dnata Travel has reported a 21% increase in the average booking value for in-store services in 2024 compared to the previous year. Walk-in services at its 13 retail outlets across the UAE remain the most popular way for residents to book travel, driven by a rise in demand for more complex itineraries.

This summer, multi-location trips across Europe were particularly popular, combining train and self-drive travel. France, Italy and Switzerland were frequently included in these itineraries, which featured multiple stops across one or several countries. Tailor-made itineraries in Asia also gained traction throughout the year, with bookings typically including multiple stops within a single country. Hotspots across Thailand and Sri Lanka are especially sought after, with a notable spike in demand for Vietnam compared to previous years.

Cruise itineraries, offering multiple stops across different countries, are also seeing steady growth, with dnata Travel anticipating even higher demand as the GCC cruise season approaches this winter.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “Multi-destination itineraries are trending, as travellers look to experience the best of a region or country in one extended trip.

“Many of our customers prefer to book these complex journeys in-store, where our travel experts can provide personalised advice on destinations, hotels and the latest offers. We offer a one-stop solution, where travellers can book everything from flights and hotels to car rentals, tours and insurance.

“One of the highest value in-store bookings in 2024 was a summer trip across France, taking in Paris and Cannes, then on to Monaco. Our travel experts arranged the flights, accommodation, private transport and guided tours, all with a fashion theme, in one sitting. This luxurious itinerary featured some of the finest destinations, experiences, and resorts in our portfolio.”

Looking ahead to winter season, dnata Travel expects continued demand for multi-destination trips, particularly for festive market tours across cities like Budapest, Prague, Vienna and some of the major German cities, accessible by train. In-store enquiries for Japan have also surged, with travellers looking to combine skiing on the island of Hokkaido with visits to popular cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.

In-store bookings for ski holidays, which often require extra logistics, also rise in demand each winter. Popular at dnata Travel include Club Med’s all-inclusive packages across some of the world’s top winter sports destinations, offering ski and lift passes, beginner instructors and mountain guides for experienced skiers. Additionally, demand for Lapland trips is growing with customers interested in itineraries that offer Northern Lights tours, stays in ‘igloo’ hotels and scenic winter experiences for the ultimate holiday adventure.

The most popular dnata Travel retail stores for bookings in 2024 include Emirates Group Technology Centre (Deira), Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre, and Mirdif City Centre, respectively. Sitting just outside the ‘top five’ in terms of booking volumes, dnata Travel Dubai Hills Mall is the brand’s biggest growth story this year, fast becoming one of its highest performing stores in terms of booking value.