(MENAFN- Houbara Communicatons) Dubai, UAE – [Date] – Amadeus, the leading global travel technology provider, has released its Travel Trends 2026 report, developed with forecasting agency Globetrender, offering a forward-looking view of the behaviors, technologies and cultural shifts set to shape travel in the year ahead. Drawing on Amadeus’ global Travel Intelligence and market research, the report highlights how travelers are embracing new ways of planning, booking and experiencing their journeys.
Travelling with pets
A major shift is emerging in the way people travel with pets, with rising ownership influencing travel decisions globally. Today, 56% of people worldwide own a pet, and nearly half are first-time pet parents, contributing to a projected US$500 billion global pet industry by 2030. Across the GCC, this shift is reflected in the growth of the UAE and Saudi Arabia pet-care markets, estimated between US$24.4 million and US$149 million in the UAE and around US$135 million in Saudi Arabia. As global travel providers expand pet-friendly policies – from in-cabin pet flights to hotel loyalty programs – demand for more inclusive travel options is expected to grow among regional travelers.
Travel Mixology
Travel planning is undergoing a transformation as travelers blend AI-powered tools, human insight and user-generated content to build more personalized and resilient itineraries. Generative AI usage has risen 64% year-on-year globally, supported by innovations such as Google Flight Deals, powered by Amadeus inventory, and visual itinerary tools from platforms like Expedia. In the UAE and Saudi Arabia, multiple studies show rising comfort with digital and AI-enabled trip planning, with travelers increasingly using AI tools to research destinations, compare options and save time during booking.
Technological advances
Innovation in aviation is reshaping long-haul travel. Airlines around the world are introducing next-generation narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A321XLR, enabling efficient point-to-point routes and expanded access to new destinations. With over 500 global orders, these aircraft promise shorter journeys and broader connectivity. On the ground, airports are accelerating the rollout of biometric corridors and contactless processing. According to an Amadeus survey, 69% of global travelers would use biometric gateways if it meant skipping passport checks. In the UAE, biometric systems are already being deployed at scale across Dubai International Airport.
Cultural influence
With entertainment increasingly fragmented across platforms and genres, fans are travelling to connect with the stories and characters they love—a trend described as “Pop Culting.” Global examples include Seoul’s experiences inspired by KPop Demon Hunters and destinations linked to popular series such as The Last of Us. While much activity originates in Asia, North America and Europe, the GCC is expanding its entertainment landscape through major upcoming attractions, including Disneyland Abu Dhabi, set to open in 2032.
Increasing personalization
Hotels are redefining guest experiences through advanced personalization, enabling travelers to select specific room features- from wellness equipment and gaming setups to preferred room locations. Powered by evolving platforms such as Amadeus’ iHotelier and deeper integrations across hotel technology providers, these “Pick ’n’ Stays” reflect growing demand for tailored, lifestyle-driven stays. Amadeus research shows 63% of travelers globally are willing to pay more for specific room attributes, emphasizing the shift away from generic room categories toward more flexible offerings.
Maher Koubaa, Executive Vice President, EMEA, Amadeus, said: "Across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, we are seeing travelers embrace new possibilities that redefine how journeys are experienced. From the rise of pet-friendly travel and AI-powered planning tools to the expansion of point to point routes connecting our region more directly with the world, innovation is reshaping expectations. Pop culture is inspiring new forms of tourism, while hotels are offering unprecedented personalization that reflects individual lifestyles. These trends highlight a future where travel is more inclusive, connected, and tailored than ever before, and EMEA will play a central role in leading this transformation."
Jenny Southan, CEO, Globetrender, added: "The future of travel is on 'spin mode' – with technology, culture and innovation propelling it into hyper-drive. At Globetrender we continuously hunt for shifts in consumer behaviour in relation to our framework of ten globally relevant mega trends, which range from Climate Contours to Youthquake. The broader pace of change that is now happening in the mid 2020s is feeding into an accelerated loop cycle within the travel industry, as differing influences nudge and ignite what both companies and individuals do in response.
“Although people's fundamental human needs don't change from year to year, what does change is how they react to marketing, news cycles and pop culture. As we enter the latter half of the decade, 2026 will feel more 'science fiction' than any year that has come before."

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