Certain residents of the UAE are embarking on global journeys for 'work vacations'. Experts in the travel sector have noted that this phenomenon, wherein employees choose to work remotely from a more laid-back setting, is driven by enhanced workplace flexibility. This flexibility enables employees to blend work with leisure. 'With most schools on break, UAE residents are opting for workcations to seek cooler climates,' stated Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. 'The increased flexibility offered by companies allows individuals to enjoy vacations while working remotely, providing an opportunity to explore and reconnect with loved ones.' This trend of work vacations is particularly prevalent among the younger demographic. 'We observe these trends predominantly among Gen Z and young entrepreneurs under the age of 35,' commented Wafa Yahya, owner of the UAE-based tours and events agency Wayak. 'By integrating work with vacation, individuals can discover new destinations, travel extensively, and rejuvenate while meeting their work obligations. Depending on the destination, these trips typically range from Dh3,500 to 6,000 per week.'
Mohammed Nadeem, a Dubai-based software programmer, is currently on a work vacation. He has been spending his days in Moscow, Russia. 'I usually take work vacations during the summer. I travel to a country and stay there for about two months. Last year, I visited Italy; this year, I'm in Russia. I don't stay more than a few days in the same city and keep moving. Since my job is remote, it doesn't matter where I work from,' he told Khaleej Times. Another work vacationer, Anuroopa Mukherjee, has been working from India, where she is enjoying her time at a wellness retreat. 'I wanted to escape the summer heat and immerse myself in nature with detox therapies,' she explained. 'I came to Rishikesh and am spending time at a wellness resort with neurotherapy, yoga, and detox.'
According to Raheesh, residents consider several factors when selecting their travel destinations. 'They prioritize good weather to escape the heat, budget-friendly flights and hotels,' he noted. 'They also favor city breaks over islands or mountains. Strong internet connectivity is essential to keep work on track. The availability of leisure activities for family and friends is also a top priority.' Wafa added that visa requirements and the cost of living index were significant considerations. 'Countries offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival options are preferred,' she said. 'Also, since remote work travelers might spend weeks abroad, affordability is crucial. Affordable living costs and favorable currency exchange rates influence the choice of destination.'
Wafa highlighted that mental well-being is a major reason why many work vacationers choose to travel. 'A change of scenery can boost mental health and reduce burnout,' she explained. 'According to a survey, 60% of remote workers reported improved mental health when working from different locations. Experiencing different cultures and lifestyles is also a significant attraction.' Anuroopa's workcation in Rishikesh has been incredibly refreshing. 'Being away from the usual city life has been wonderful,' she said. 'I attend two yoga and meditation sessions daily plus have a lot of free time. I've set aside certain hours for work, but I'm enjoying the natural beauty here for the rest of the time.' The 44-year-old plans to continue traveling and working for the remainder of the summer. 'From here, I'm planning to travel to another destination in August, though I'm still deciding where to go.' For Mohammed, the cultural experience is what draws him to travel each summer. 'Yes, I want to escape the heat, but I also want to experience various cultures,' he said. 'Every day, I take the public transport bus and visit little-known places in the cities I stay in. Here in Moscow, I've been staying close to the Kremlin and enjoying the stunning architecture.'
