UAE residents are increasingly planning their holidays around major sports events, according to a new survey by Hyatt. From Formula 1 races to high-profile football matches, sports tourism is playing a significant role in influencing how people in the UAE choose their vacation dates and destinations.
The findings reveal a noticeable shift in travel habits, with residents keen on combining leisure with the thrill of watching global sporting spectacles live. This trend is not just reshaping holiday schedules but is also boosting hotel occupancy rates across Dubai and Abu Dhabi during peak sports seasons.
Formula 1 and Football Lead the Trend
Events like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and international football matches have emerged as top attractions for residents planning getaways. The survey highlights that these events are now major motivators when it comes to deciding when and where to travel.
In 2024, for instance, hotel occupancy across key areas in Abu Dhabi surged significantly during the Formula 1 race weekend. Similarly, major football fixtures, especially those featuring European clubs or national teams, drew crowds from across the UAE.
Hyatt’s regional hotel teams observed a spike in advance bookings around such events, indicating a strong connection between sport and travel preferences.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi See Higher Hotel Demand
The growing interest in sports-centric holidays has had a direct impact on the hospitality industry in the UAE. According to Hyatt’s survey, hotel occupancy in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi has seen a significant boost during major sporting seasons.
Dubai, with its growing number of sports venues and annual events, continues to attract residents and tourists alike. Abu Dhabi, on the other hand, remains the centerpiece for international motorsport, especially the final Formula 1 race of the season.
Hyatt’s luxury properties in both cities reported higher-than-average occupancy levels during sports event weekends, with some locations even hitting full capacity.
Sports Tourism on the Rise in the Middle East
The survey also puts a spotlight on the rise of sports tourism not just in the UAE, but across the wider Middle East. Regional governments and tourism bodies have made deliberate efforts to bring world-class events to the region, and residents are responding with enthusiasm.
This shift aligns with broader global trends where sports tourism is gaining momentum, becoming a lucrative sector for airlines, hotels, and event organizers.
UAE residents, especially younger demographics and families, are embracing the idea of attending live sporting events as part of their travel experience, leading to higher domestic and regional tourism activity.
Why Residents Are Drawn to Sports Holidays
There are several reasons behind this trend:
- Unique Experiences: Live sporting events offer a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere that many want to experience firsthand.
- Social Appeal: Sports holidays are often group-oriented, making them attractive for families and friends.
- Cultural Value: Global events like Formula 1 and international football bring together people of different cultures, something that strongly resonates with the UAE’s diverse population.
- Accessibility: With world-class venues and easy access to event tickets, UAE residents find it convenient to attend these events.
Hyatt’s Insights and Booking Patterns
Hyatt Hotels conducted this survey across several of its properties in the UAE and collected feedback from both regular guests and first-time visitors. The survey reveals that nearly 60% of UAE residents have planned a vacation or staycation around a sporting event in the last 12 months.
Moreover, over 70% of respondents said they would consider scheduling their future holidays based on sports fixtures. This signals a long-term shift in travel preferences, with event calendars increasingly becoming central to holiday planning.
Hyatt’s regional management noted a 20–30% rise in inquiries and bookings during Formula 1 and football weekends. Weekend bookings, in particular, surged, with extended stays becoming more common.
Hotels Offer Sports-Inspired Packages
Recognizing this trend, Hyatt and other leading hotel brands in the UAE have begun offering special packages during sports seasons. These packages often include:
- Discounted room rates
- Shuttle services to event venues
- Exclusive event access or VIP tickets
- Themed food and beverage experiences
Such offers have proven popular among residents looking for both comfort and proximity to the action.
Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights, for instance, launched a “Formula Weekend Stay” which included early check-in, late checkout, race-themed dining options, and a shuttle service to Yas Marina Circuit.
Sports as a Community Experience
Another important observation from the survey is that sports events are not just about the game—they’re about the social experience. Residents often use these occasions as opportunities for bonding, entertaining guests, or even team-building among corporate groups.
Hotel lounges, sports bars, and viewing zones within properties have become key gathering spots, further increasing the value hotels bring during sports seasons.
Looking Ahead: Bigger Events, Bigger Travel Plans
With events like the 2025 AFC Asian Cup and future editions of Formula 1 and UFC planned in the region, the trend of sports-focused travel is expected to grow. UAE residents are already eyeing these events, planning ahead to secure accommodations and tickets.
The trend is also likely to expand beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with other emirates and Gulf countries joining in to host major events. Hyatt’s team is exploring opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah, Doha, and Jeddah to support this growing demand.
Conclusion: A Win-Win for Tourism and Sports
The Hyatt survey clearly shows that UAE residents plan holidays around sports, and this trend is only accelerating. It’s a win-win scenario where sports, tourism, and hospitality sectors all benefit from increased engagement.
As more high-profile events come to the region, we can expect sports tourism to become a permanent part of the UAE’s travel landscape. Residents not only get to enjoy the thrill of live events but also explore new cities and cultures in the process.
For hotels, travel planners, and event organizers, this opens up exciting opportunities to create immersive and unforgettable experiences for sports-loving travelers across the UAE.
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