A growing number of UAE residents are opting for ‘workcations,’ combining remote work with travel to improve mental well-being and work-life balance. This trend is driven by increased workplace flexibility, allowing employees to work from more relaxed environments while exploring new destinations.
Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com, commented on this rising trend, saying, “As (most) schools are on holidays, UAE residents are choosing workcations to escape to cooler destinations. With companies providing flexibility, this allows people to take vacations while working remotely, offering a chance to explore and connect with loved ones.”
This trend is particularly popular among younger generations. “We see these trends more in Gen Z and young entrepreneurs below the age group of 35,” said Wafa Yahya, owner of UAE-based tours and events agency Wayak. “By combining work with vacation, individuals can explore new destinations, travel more, and rejuvenate while fulfilling their work commitments. Depending on the location, these trips ideally cost between Dh3,500 to 6,000 per week.”
Setting Priorities
Dubai-based software programmer Mohammed Nadeem is currently on a workcation in Moscow, Russia. “I usually take work vacations during summer. I travel to a country and spend close to two months there. Last year, I explored Italy; this year, I am in Russia. I don’t spend 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,” Nadeem said.
Another workcationer, Anuroopa Mukherjee, is working from a wellness retreat in India. “I wanted to escape the summer heat and experience some nature with detox therapies,” she said. “I came to Rishikesh and am spending time at a wellness resort with naturotherapy, yoga, and detox.”
Raheesh Babu highlighted the priorities of workcationers when choosing destinations. “They prioritise good weather for a break from the heat, budget-friendly flights and hotels. Strong internet connectivity is a must to ensure work stays on track. Availability of leisure activities for family and friends is also a top preference.”
Wafa Yahya added that visa requirements and cost of living are crucial considerations. “Countries offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival options are preferred. Also, since remote work travellers might spend weeks working abroad, affordability is key. Affordable living costs and favourable currency exchange rates influence the choice of destination.”
Why Take a Workcation
According to Wafa, mental well-being is a significant reason many choose to travel while working. “A change of scenery can enhance mental health and reduce burnout. 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 draw.”
Anuroopa described her experience in Rishikesh as refreshing. “Being away from the usual city life has been great. I have been attending two yoga and meditation sessions every day plus a lot of free time. I have set aside certain hours to work, but I am soaking up the natural beauty here for the rest of the time.”
She plans to continue traveling and working for the rest of the summer. “From here, I am planning to travel to another destination in August although I am still deliberating on where to go.”
For Mohammed, cultural experiences are a major draw. “Yes, I want to escape from the heat, but I also want to experience various cultures. Every day, I take the public transport bus and travel to little-known places in the cities I stay in. Here in Moscow, I have been staying close to the Kremlin and have been enjoying the amazing architecture.”
