UAE: Female-Led Travel Grows By 18% As Momcations, Solo Trips Rise

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Women-only trips and tour packages are gaining momentum in the UAE, according to travel experts. As more women travel for work, business and leisure, providers and destinations are stepping up to better support solo and group female travellers.

“Current industry indicators suggest an approximately 18 percent increase in overall female-led travel,” said Rashida Zahid, VP of Operations at musafir.“This growth is being supported by greater workforce participation and financial independence that enables women to travel with confidence.”

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She added that the rise in female-only tours was not uniform across segments.“While solo journeys account for less than 10 percent of this growth, women-only and all-female group travel is expanding at the fastest rate, particularly among millennial and Gen Z travellers.”

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Beyond the numbers, the way women are travelling and the experiences they seek are also changing.“Many are choosing thoughtfully curated trips that feel meaningful and enriching,” said Anastasia Yanchenko, CEO of The Visa Services Agency.

“Wellness and self-care travel is on the rise. At the same time, there's a growing preference for quiet luxury – places that offer comfort, safety, and calm, rather than rushed, crowded itineraries.”

Bleisure and momcations

According to Rashida, one of the trends commonly being seen in the industry is that of momcations.“These are short breaks or staycations that allow mothers to travel with their children while still enjoying personal downtime, spa access, or wellness experiences without prolonged separation from family,” she said.

“Leisure remains the dominant driver, but 'bleisure' is increasingly common, with women extending business and work trips for leisure, personal time, wellness, or cultural exploration.”

She added women-only group travel-especially small to medium-sized groups-has emerged as the fastest-growing segment, offering a balance of independence, social connection, and enhanced comfort.

Noushad Hassan from Alhind Business Center explained that such women-only groups offered many travellers a chance that they would otherwise not be able to get.

“With the fast pace of life, many women struggle to relax, find connections or catch up with friends,” he said.“Such women-only trips offer a bonding experience where they can enjoy quality time with friends or travel with like-minded women and make new friends in the process.”

Preferred destinations

When it comes to picking destinations, safety, culture, wellness, and career opportunities play a major role in their choices. Anastasia pointed out that Japan stands out as a top destination, especially for solo travellers.“Its reputation for safety, reliable public transport, and low crime rates gives women the confidence to travel independently,” she said.

“Across Asia, places like Thailand, Indonesia – particularly Bali – South Korea, and Vietnam continue to grow in popularity because of rich cultural experiences and affordability.”

According to Rashida, European cities like those in Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, and Greece are popular for walkability, reliable public transport, culture, and safety.

Several travellers are also visiting Nordic countries like Finland, Denmark and Norway for their safety, sustainability, nature-based travel, and solo-friendly environments.

Noushad said that many women from other countries are choosing to travel to the region, particularly due to safety.“The UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman are seeing an increasing number of women travelling here due to their high safety standards and good hospitality offerings,” he said.

“There is growing interest due to heritage tourism, wellness retreats, and evolving tourism ecosystems that cater well to women-led travel.

The travel industry responds

Rashida said that the travel industry is responding to this trend with increasing readiness.“Hotels, tour operators, and destinations are increasingly designing products with solo female travellers in mind,” she said.

“They are increasingly offering additions like female tour guides and local hosts, which enhance comfort and cultural access. They have accommodation options with enhanced security features and women-focused amenities.”

Anastasia added that providers are designing experiences tailored specifically for women.“Wellness and self-care retreats, cultural and food-focused tours, and creative or lifestyle-driven itineraries are all becoming more common,” she said.“These experiences strike a balance between independence and guidance, so travellers can enjoy freedom without feeling alone or overwhelmed.”

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