By dubailife 
**Seacations: The Growing Travel Trend for Dubai Residents During National Day Weekend**
As the final long weekend of the year approaches, Dubai travel enthusiasts are embracing a rising trend: *seacations*. With increasing airfares and visa delays, short cruise holidays across the Arabian Gulf are becoming the preferred choice for UAE residents seeking affordable and convenient getaways.
This surge in demand for cruises, particularly over long weekends like the upcoming UAE National Day holiday, has prompted travel operators to offer special packages to attract Dubai-based travelers.
Shamsheed CV, senior consultant for outbound travel at Wisefox Tourism, noted the growing popularity of these cruises, which combine adventure with affordability. “Cruise trips have gained significant traction among UAE residents, especially Dubai travelers. With the rise in airfare to visa-free countries, overall travel costs have escalated, making seacations a budget-friendly alternative,” Shamsheed explained.
**National Day Weekend Cruise Offers for Dubai Travelers**
During the UAE National Day weekend, many cruise operators are offering discounted seacation packages. These short cruise holidays are gaining popularity as they provide an all-inclusive experience, where accommodations, meals, and entertainment are bundled into one package. “It’s like a floating city,” Shamsheed said. “Travellers can enjoy diverse activities onboard without the hassle of planning every detail, making it an attractive option for families, couples, and even solo travellers.”
As the cost of air travel to popular destinations like Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia rises, many Dubai residents are turning to seacations as a smart alternative. “The demand for seacations has increased because flying to visa-free destinations has become costly,” Shamsheed added. “Seacations offer an affordable holiday without the need for visas or high airfare.”
**Exclusive Cruise Packages for UAE National Day**
Cruise operators are tailoring their offerings to meet the preferences of Dubai residents, with several introducing exclusive packages for the National Day weekend. Libin Varghese, sales director at Rooh Travel and Tourism, announced the introduction of a Singapore-based cruise ship to the UAE for short weekend sailings. “We’re offering two- and three-night cruise itineraries starting from AED 1,499, with accommodations ranging from luxurious palace suites to ocean-view staterooms,” said Varghese.
The cruises also feature unique entertainment options that cater to the local culture, providing an authentic Gulf experience for Dubai residents. “We’ve curated entertainment onboard to connect travelers with regional traditions while they enjoy their seacation,” Varghese added.
**Seacations: An Affordable, Stress-Free Option for Dubai Residents**
Travel industry leaders believe that the affordability, convenience, and variety of seacations make them an appealing option, particularly during long weekends like UAE National Day. “Short two- and three-night cruises offer the perfect escape for those who want a holiday without taking too much time off work,” said Varghese.
With special National Day offers, local entertainment, and cruise itineraries designed for Dubai’s travelers, seacations are quickly becoming the go-to option for those looking to celebrate the long weekend in style.