Publication date: Sunday, September 29, 2024, 6:00 a.m.
UAE tourists are splurging on ‘sportscations’, with some spending up to Dh10,000 a night to enjoy the country’s top sports facilities and exclusive experiences.
Travelers to the UAE often take advantage of the country’s top-notch sporting facilities and events, enjoying a seamless combination of leisure and fitness during their stay. Sportscation is a combination of travel and sports activities and is a growing trend around the world. These packages range from AED 370 to AED 10,000 per night, with options to suit a variety of budgets.
Vinayak Mahtani, CEO of bnbme Holiday Homes, told Khaleej Times: “We cater to golfers who travel in groups and are planning to play golf. Our sportscation packages start from Dh370 per night. We offer options to suit all budgets, ranging from Dh10,000 per night.The UAE is especially popular for sportscations during the winter months due to its favorable climate for playing golf.
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Vinayak Mahtani
Rikanto Pitti, co-founder of EaseMyTrip, said: “One of the top sportscation destinations in the UAE is the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, held at the Yas Marina Circuit, which attracts motorsport fans from all over the world. Golf is also a big draw, with events such as the Dubai Desert Classic and the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championships showcasing the UAE’s world-class courses.
Mr Pitti said the UAE has become a premier sports destination with its blend of sporting events, luxury and scenery.
“Ras Al Khaimah is becoming increasingly popular, especially during the cooler months. The Hajar Mountains are perfect for mountain biking and hiking. The emirate’s diverse landscapes, from ancient forts to beaches, add to its charm. Marjan The island’s Corniche is perfect for running and cycling, and hosts events such as the Ras Al Khaimah Triathlon.”
According to EastmyTrip, the estimated cost of a sportscation can vary widely.
Economy class tickets typically cost between AED 1,500 and AED 2,500 return. Room rates range from AED 200 to AED 400 per night for a 3-star hotel, and AED 250 up to AED 450 per night for a 4-star hotel. As for food, meals in mid-range restaurants usually cost between AED 100 and AED 250 per day. Leisure activities cost from AED 300 to AED 800 per round for golf and AED 150 to AED 250 per day for mountain biking.
spend a lot of money on sportscations
Similarly, UAE residents are increasingly embracing sportscations and are willing to spend up to 20% more for these unique experiences. For example, Abu Mohammed, who has lived in the UAE for the past 10 years, shared his views on this trend, saying he doesn’t mind spending 10 to 20 percent more on his favorite sport while on vacation.
He was originally scheduled to visit Qatar in 2021, but postponed his trip to coincide with the 2022 FIFA World Cup in order to combine his vacation with his passion for sports. “Although the cost of accommodation was a bit high, I was determined to spend up to 20 per cent more to experience the World Cup live for the first time,” he said.
Similarly, Adnan Chowdhury, a fitness enthusiast who travels frequently, emphasized the importance of sports activities when choosing travel destinations. He explained to Khaleej Times: “When choosing your next destination, look for locations with sports facilities such as gyms, cycling trails, and water sports. Allocate an extra 15 percent of your budget to ensure you can enjoy these activities during your vacation. Staying healthy is essential and sportscations offer the perfect solution.”
In light of this growing interest, Matthew Vlemmiks, Leisure Manager at dnata Travel, shared his insights into the growing trend of sportscation. He said: “We recently introduced a sports division to meet the growing demand for sports travel from the UAE. dnata Travel now offers sports event tickets and flights, accommodation, as well as hospitality packages and stadium tours. We offer packages that include a combination of benefits.
He also detailed the service, highlighting popular upcoming events. “We have launched sports travel packages for fans including the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, F1 Qatar Airways Grand Prix 2024, the Premier League clash between Manchester City and Manchester United, and F1 2025. Bahrain Grand Prix.
“Each package includes a three-night hotel stay, daily breakfast and event tickets, starting from AED 1,390 for the Kings Slam, AED 2,150 for the Qatar Grand Prix, AED 1,999 for the Manchester Derby and AED 1,550 for six tournaments. All packages includes applicable taxes and service charges, making it easier for sports enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite events.”
Vlemmiks also noticed that among sports package bookings, F1, soccer and cricket packages were particularly popular. “Recent examples include ICC Cricket and the T20 World Cup in India and the Caribbean, as well as various Grand Prix and Premier League soccer packages throughout the year.”
Finally, he pointed to the growing demand for sporting events in Saudi Arabia, saying, “With sports now part of the Riyadh season, with high-profile boxing and other events being held in the country, Saudi Arabia is “We continue to establish ourselves as a leading sports destination.” Alongside other GCC countries such as UAE, Qatar and Bahrain. ”
popular sports destination
Rashida Zahid, vice president of operations at musafir.com, highlighted popular sports destinations for UAE residents throughout the year.
“In winter, Georgia, Baku, Montenegro and Switzerland are popular destinations.In spring and early summer, destinations such as Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Nepal are popular, while summer travelers prefer Zanzibar, France and Greece. In the fall, there will be interest in France, Spain and South Korea,” she said.
Rashida Zahid
Additionally, “Emerging spots that are gaining popularity include Costa Rica, Nepal, Latvia, and Slovenia, with Albania a top choice for hiking.” Georgia, Slovenia, and Austria are also popular ski destinations. ”
Zahid pointed out that popular sports among UAE residents include skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, surfing, diving, snorkeling and trekking.
The Maldives is also one of the top destinations for UAE residents looking for a sportscation, offering a combination of adventure, relaxation and tropical beauty.
Kandima Maldives. Photo: Attached
Tom Van Tuyl, General Manager of Kandima Maldives, said: Interest in adventure sports such as parasailing and diving is increasing.
At Kandima Maldives, families can enjoy activities such as soccer, volleyball, swimming and tennis. For those looking for more adventure, diving, parasailing and motorized water sports are available for an additional fee. Resort prices start from $275 (approximately Dh1,000) for a half-board stay for two adults,” Van Zyl added.
Kandima Mordovis. Photo: Attached
Deputy Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee Bulat Nurmukhanov emphasized that the Russian capital is a diverse sports destination for UAE residents.
“Popular sports for UAE residents include drifting, horseback riding and quad biking. starts from $100 (367 dirhams) per person,” Nurmukhanov said.
Nurmukhanov said seasonal trends greatly influence sports preferences.
“In the summer, interest in running, cycling and outdoor training increases. Moscow also hosts large-scale sporting events and festivals, such as the Moscow Sports Day, which features a variety of sports and activities. When the temperature drops, , Moscow is changing with the opening of ski slopes, skating rinks and curling rinks in parks. Activities in these places are often free and professional guidance is available, ”Nurmukhanov added.
Photo: Attached
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