New reports have found that 45% of UAE residents plan their entire holiday around sporting events.
The study, conducted by Perspectus Global in March 2025 among 2,100 UAE respondents, found that individuals would take part in an average of 12 sports activities and would be participating in seven events as spectators next year.
UAE Sports Travel Boom
According to a survey commissioned by Hyatt, 45% of UAE residents are one of the joys of life to be attended at live sporting events, with 30% saying they travel thousands of miles to experience the event.
Additionally, 27% say they pay premiums to stay in hotels that enhance the event experience, from location and amenities to atmosphere.
While soccer remains the most sport in 52% of sports, interest in cricket (29%), cycling (28%), swimming (27%) and bodybuilding (21%) reflect the sport culture across the region.
“We're a great place to go,” said Stephen Ansel, managing director of Middle East and Africa, Hyatt, managing director of Middle East and Africa. “Sport Tripping has reached the heat pitch and is seeing more travelers. Watching live sporting events, staying at Hyatt accommodations, people discovering new destinations, revisiting their favorites and looking forward to sporting events is an indication that people are discovering new destinations to provide the perfect opportunity to provide fans.
The survey found that 52% of respondents said that when booking a hotel, the proximity to the sports venue was the factor, while 30% were inspired by staying in hotels that athletes and sports teams often visit. Access to 3 Value On-Site Facilities or Fan Zones.
Hyatt observed a shift across regional characteristics where travel is centered around sporting events.
Travelers want stays that support performance and happiness, from their proximity to venues and recovery facilities to nutritional dining and spaces designed to support performance.
F1, soccer fuel boom in the United Arab Emirates
Events such as Formula 1 and soccer equipment have driven levels of occupancy in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, indicating that the sport has become part of the region's identity.
The desire to travel extends beyond the audience experience. Two in five residents in the UAE say they love traveling to participate in competitive sports. For many, these trips are just as much about personal health and fulfillment as competition.
Whether you maintain a fitness routine (40%) (40%), discipline (33%), or spending time with family and friends, these journeys can help people redefine what it means to relax.
Travelers blend movement and meaning to create holidays where sports, happiness and connections intersect.
Thinking about it affects business travel. 42% of UAE respondents are incentives from their ability to practice sports during work trips, while 40% are trying to combine participation in sporting events with business schedules.
Whether you narrow down your morning swimming, play games after a meeting, or join a cycling group during the meeting, experts have not abandoned their happy goals during the trip, the report says.
The hotel, service and fitness amenities that balance productivity and wellness meet the expectations of these travelers.
