UAE travel lovers rely on apps to optimize their tourism experience

As much as 90 percent of UAE travel lovers say apps and digital services are now central to the vacation experience, according to new research conducted by computer software company Cisco AppDynamics. 

The survey of 12,036 global consumers across 12 countries – including 1001 in the UAE – observes how holidaymakers and vacationers plan to use digital services this year and just how reliant they’ll be on applications as they look to enjoy a memorable vacation after a tough couple of years.

The findings show that people in the UAE plan on using 35 different digital services and applications to plan, book, and travel on their next vacation. 

Cisco AppDyanmics also highlighted that 92 percent will use applications to prove their Covid status or vaccination status. 

In addition, the study notes that 72 percent of the respondents say they don’t intend to carry any paper-based tickets on their next vacation and will rely entirely on airline and travel apps, digital wallets, and email throughout their trip. 

The report indicates that poor application experience will potentially ruin UAE consumers’ holidays. It demonstrates that 68 percent of people surveyed in the Emirates claim that if a travel application they were using (such as an airline, train company, or hotel booking app) were to fail, it would disrupt their vacation. Meanwhile, 45 percent believe it could potentially ruin their whole trip. 

The study emphasizes that 80 percent of UAE consumers state that apps and digital services are essential to keep children entertained on vacation. 

On the other hand, 44 percent of UAE consumers told the survey that if they experience a problem with an application when planning, booking, or traveling on vacation, they’ll immediately switch to an alternative. 

Furthermore, the report underlines the importance of apps for UAE consumers, pointing out the need for really good technology to ensure apps perform well.