Travel & Tourism

Female-led travel grows by 18% as momcations and solo trips rise

Female-led travel in the UAE has recorded an estimated 18 per cent growth, driven by rising participation of women in the workforce, greater financial independence, and changing travel preferences that prioritise wellness, safety, and meaningful experiences.

Travel industry experts say women-only trips and curated tour packages are gaining strong momentum as more women travel for business, leisure, and blended “bleisure” purposes. According to Rashida Zahid, Vice President of Operations at musafir.com, industry indicators point to a notable rise in women-led travel, supported by increased confidence and independence among female travellers.

While solo travel accounts for less than 10 per cent of this growth, Zahid noted that women-only and all-female group travel is expanding at the fastest pace, particularly among millennial and Gen Z travellers. These group formats are increasingly seen as offering a balance between independence, social connection, and comfort.

Beyond the numbers, travel experts say women’s expectations are also evolving. Anastasia Yanchenko, CEO of The Visa Services Agency, said many female travellers are now choosing thoughtfully curated trips that feel enriching and purposeful. Wellness and self-care travel continues to grow, alongside a preference for “quiet luxury” experiences that focus on comfort, safety, and calm rather than crowded itineraries.

One of the fastest-rising trends is the concept of “momcations” — short breaks or staycations that allow mothers to travel with their children while still enjoying personal downtime, spa treatments, or wellness activities. Zahid explained that leisure travel remains the main driver, but bleisure travel is becoming increasingly common, with women extending work trips for rest, cultural exploration, or personal well-being.

Women-only group travel is also filling an important social need. Noushad Hassan of Alhind Business Center said such trips allow women to relax, reconnect, and build friendships in a supportive environment. He added that these journeys offer a bonding experience that many women struggle to find amid fast-paced daily routines.

Destination choices among female travellers are strongly influenced by safety, culture, wellness offerings, and career opportunities. Yanchenko highlighted Japan as a leading destination for solo female travellers due to its safety, efficient public transport, and low crime rates. Other popular Asian destinations include Thailand, Indonesia — particularly Bali — South Korea, and Vietnam, which combine cultural richness with affordability.

European cities in Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, and Greece continue to attract women for their walkability, public transport, and cultural appeal, while Nordic countries such as Finland, Denmark, and Norway are gaining attention for sustainability, nature-based travel, and solo-friendly environments.

The Middle East is also seeing growing interest from women travellers. Hassan noted that destinations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman are increasingly popular due to strong safety standards, hospitality infrastructure, and expanding heritage and wellness tourism offerings.

In response to this shift, the travel industry is adapting its services. Zahid said hotels, tour operators, and destinations are increasingly designing products for solo and group female travellers, including female tour guides, enhanced security features, and women-focused amenities. Yanchenko added that tailored experiences such as wellness retreats, food and culture tours, and creative lifestyle itineraries are becoming more common, offering women a balance of independence and guided support.