Tourism in the UAE is taking a unique and exciting turn with the rising popularity of “sportcations.” These packages offer travellers the opportunity to indulge in their favorite sports activities while enjoying the luxurious amenities the country has to offer. Ranging from Dh370 to Dh10,000 per night, sportcation packages cater to various budgets, with options for every type of traveler. The winter season, in particular, is a popular time for sportcations due to the favorable weather for outdoor activities like golfing.
According to industry experts like Vinayak Mahtani, CEO of bnbme Holiday Homes, and Rikant Pittie, co-founder of EaseMyTrip, the UAE is becoming a top sportcation destination. Events like the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and golf tournaments like the Dubai Desert Classic attract sports enthusiasts from around the world. Additionally, the diverse landscapes and luxury amenities in places like Ras Al Khaimah make it an ideal destination for sportcations, offering activities like mountain biking, hiking, and beach sports.
As the trend of sportcations continues to grow, UAE residents are also joining in on the trend. People like Abu Mohammed and Adnan Chaudhry are willing to spend extra to incorporate their favorite sports activities into their vacation plans. Companies like dnata Travel have recognized this growing demand and are now offering sports travel packages that combine event tickets, flights, accommodations, and other extras for a seamless sportcation experience.
Popular sportcation destinations for UAE residents include countries like Georgia, Baku, Montenegro, Switzerland, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Zanzibar, among others. Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, surfing, diving, snorkeling, or trekking, there are plenty of options for sports enthusiasts to choose from. The Maldives, in particular, stands out as a top destination for sportcations, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and tropical beauty.
The variety of sports activities available in different destinations, from football to yoga to parasailing, provides UAE residents with a wide range of options for their sportcations. The city of Moscow, for example, offers activities like drifting, horse riding, and quad biking, catering to the diverse interests of sportcation travelers. As seasonal trends affect sportcation preferences, Moscow transforms with ski tracks, skating rinks, and curling alleys in the winter, providing unique opportunities for outdoor sports and activities.
Overall, sportcations offer a perfect blend of travel, leisure, and fitness for tourists and residents alike. With a growing number of individuals looking to incorporate their favorite sports activities into their vacation plans, the trend of sportcations is expected to continue gaining popularity in the UAE and beyond. Whether it’s watching a live sports event, hitting the golf course, or engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities, sportcations provide a unique and unforgettable travel experience for sports enthusiasts of all kinds.