Results of the American Express Middle East Trendex Survey
A strong preference for premium travel and experiential gifting for the upcoming winter and spring holidays among UAE consumers
The majority of them are willing to spend more for a high-end travel experience, with personalized experiences (78%), private transportation (74%), and first-class/luxury accommodation (66%) being the most popular travel preferences.
When it comes to gift giving, live experiences are popular during the upcoming winter and spring holidays: 74% of UAE Consumers prefer to receive an experiential gift rather than a physical gift.
Among those who plan to gift experiences, entertainment (68%) and travel (66%) experiences are the most popular gift choices.
American Express Middle East has unveiled the results of its Trendex Survey*, painting a vivid picture of the travel, shopping and entertainment trends for the upcoming winter and spring holidays in the UAE. The survey reveals that there is a strong demand for luxury and personalized travel experiences amongst majority of UAE consumers, with experiential gifting also highly popular.
Saud Swar, American Express Middle East’s Chief Business Officer, shared his insights on the findings, “Our Trendex Survey reveals a strong interest among UAE Consumers for high-end travel during the upcoming winter and spring holidays, with respondents willing to spend more on leisure, premium services, exploring new destinations, and visiting family and friends. Physical gifts are popular, but we are also seeing a strong interest in experiential gifts, particularly in entertainment and travel. American Express Middle East is following these trends to offer benefits and services that align with our customers’ expectations and aspirations. Whether it’s everyday purchases or a luxury holiday, our Card Members can rely on American Express for world-class benefits and customer service.”
Key Findings:
Holiday Travel: Luxury and Personalized Experiences prioritized
With the holiday season approaching, 97% of UAE Consumers plan to travel during the upcoming winter and spring holidays and plan to spend an average of AED 7,7641. Key motivations for travelling include for leisure (61%), exploring new destinations (56%), and visiting family and friends (48%). While on their trip, travelers are willing to spend more for personalized experiences (78%), private transportation (74%), and first-class/luxury accommodations (66%).
Holiday Shopping: Strong interest for experiences like travel and entertainment
Experiences are emerging as highly sought-after presents. While physical gifts still hold appeal, there’s a strong trend toward experiential gifting, with 74% of UAE surveyed consumers preferring to receive a live experience or event as a gift rather than a physical gift. Among those who plan to gift experiences, entertainment (68%), travel (66%), and food/beverage experiences (56%) top the list of preferred experiential gifts, reflecting a desire for gifting memories and shared moments. Amongst physical gifts, UAE consumers are more inclined towards gifting sentimental items such as handmade gifts or family heirloom pieces.
Holiday Entertainment: A strong desire for togetherness and festive celebrations this holiday season
This holiday season, togetherness and festive celebrations are top of mind. The survey reveals a strong emphasis on connection, with respondents prioritizing time and celebrations with loved ones. More than 52% of respondents strongly agreed that winter and spring holidays make them want to be with family and friends, 62% want to host gatherings at home and 48% want to host family and friends for extended holiday stays. In terms of engaging experiences, holiday festivals and markets top the list of planned activities for 58% of the respondents, highlighting a desire for immersive and engaging experiences.