With new flight routes, major cultural events and a wave of hotels opening across the region and beyond, plus global trends shaping demand, 2026 is set to be a year of discovery for UAE travelers.
While Europe remains popular, tourists are exploring other corners of the continent. Asia continues to rise with its mix of affordability and culture. Closer to home, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are reinforcing the Gulf’s position as a travel hub with major cultural and hospitality investments, particularly with the Schengen-style Unified GCC Tourism Visa due to be launched soon.
Tunisia secures a prominent spot in this Top 13. Lonely Planet has highlighted Tunisia as one of its must-visit destinations for 2026, shining a spotlight on a country that blends North African culture, Mediterranean beauty and centuries of history. “UAE travelers tend to look west towards Morocco, but Tunisia offers a similar mix at a calmer pace,” Lonely Planet notes.
“The country offers UAE travelers an attractive proposition: European-standard beach resorts along the Tunisian Riviera at competitive prices, combined with authentic North African experiences. Carthage’s ancient ruins and Sidi Bou Said’s blue-and-white hillside village provide Instagram-worthy backdrops, while the Sahara offers desert-centered adventure opportunities.” It adds.
