Holiday and pre-holiday tourism in recent years has evolved into a distinct segment of the travel industry, with its own logic, seasonal characteristics, and specific demands from travelers. For many people, a trip timed to the holidays is not just a change of scenery, but a way to combine relaxation, cultural traditions, and carefully planned experiences.

How does holiday tourism differ from “regular” travel? Which destinations are most in demand during this period? What challenges do travel companies face in the high season, and what trends have been forming in the market in recent years? These and many other topics were discussed on the Economix program by the director of the travel company Dubai Tour, Hermine Alaverdyan.

Holiday trips as a tradition and growing interest in tourism

According to Alaverdyan, holiday tourism remains one of the most anticipated periods for Armenian travelers. Many families plan their New Year trips well in advance and view them as an established tradition.

“There are people who wait all year specifically for New Year’s to go on vacation, mostly as families. Despite the fact that prices during this period can double or even triple, people still prepare and look forward to these holidays. There are families who cannot imagine New Year’s without traveling abroad,” she noted.

As the director of Dubai Tour emphasized, demand for holiday travel continues to grow year after year. Moreover, high interest is observed not only among Armenian tourists, but also among foreign visitors choosing Armenia as a destination for New Year holidays.

Egypt and the UAE as leaders in holiday tourism and the impact of demand on prices

Speaking about the most popular destinations among Armenian citizens during the New Year holidays, Alaverdyan placed Egypt in first position, which has remained the leader in tourist numbers for many years.

According to her, the popularity of this destination is explained by its affordable prices, availability of direct flights, short flight duration, and the absence of visa requirements. “This is the simplest and most affordable option for a New Year holiday, which has been and remains in demand,” she emphasized.

The United Arab Emirates consistently ranks second, maintaining its strong position over many years without losing ground to other countries.

Price is most often the decisive factor

Commenting on the sharp rise in prices for holiday travel packages, Alaverdyan noted that the key factor is high demand rather than an expansion of services. According to her, whereas early booking previously allowed travelers to save significantly, today even when searching for tours several months before New Year’s, prices remain high.

She also noted that airline tickets to most UAE emirates with direct flights from Armenia are currently almost completely sold out, and their prices exceed 1,000 dollars, with only a few seats still available.

Speaking about the preferences of Armenian tourists when choosing international travel, Alaverdyan stressed that price most often remains the decisive factor. At the same time, families also pay attention to hotel comfort, access to the sea, level of service, absence of visa requirements, and, especially importantly, a direct and short flight. This is why, according to her, Egypt and the UAE continue to outperform other destinations during the holiday season.