As the winter season approaches, UAE residents are actively planning their holiday travels, creating one of the busiest periods for international departures. Leading visa processing platform Atlys has identified key destinations that are capturing the interest of the Emirates’ diverse population during the December-January period.
According to Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys, the company’s mission aligns with the seasonal travel surge. “The UAE’s population represents one of the world’s most diverse communities, and travel aspirations are equally varied,” Nahta stated. “Winter is a meaningful season when people seek connection, exploration, and celebration. We’re honored to facilitate these moments seamlessly.”
For shorter getaways, three regional destinations dominate travel preferences. Egypt remains a perennial favorite, offering its iconic Pyramids, ancient temples in Luxor, and Red Sea resorts that provide ideal winter warmth. Georgia has established itself as a winter destination with Tbilisi’s charming old town, cozy cafés, and mountain escapes in Gudauri that deliver authentic winter ambiance without extensive travel time. Morocco completes the regional selection with its cooler climate, featuring Marrakech’s bustling souks, the majestic Atlas Mountains, and expansive desert trails.
For extended holiday adventures, European destinations lead preferences. The United Kingdom attracts travelers seeking authentic European winter experiences, from London’s illuminated streets and premium shopping to Edinburgh’s festive celebrations and the English countryside’s quintessential charm. The Schengen Zone serves as a comprehensive gateway to winter experiences across 27 countries, enabling access to Christmas markets in France and Germany, alpine slopes in Switzerland and Austria, and cultural experiences throughout Italy.
Atlys addresses the complex visa requirements facing the UAE’s predominantly expatriate population, which represents over 200 nationalities. The platform streamlines travel planning by providing a unified system for eligibility verification, document submission, and application tracking, reducing administrative barriers for travelers.