This holiday season, a significant shift is noticeable in the international travel preferences of Bengaluru's jet-setters. Instead of the perennial favourite Dubai, destinations like Oman and Egypt are emerging as the top picks for overseas vacations.
Affordability and Authenticity Drive the Trend
According to insights from travel organisers, the primary reasons for this pivot are cost-effectiveness and the desire to avoid overcrowded tourist spots. While Dubai remains a major hub, its popularity often translates to higher prices during peak seasons and bustling attractions. In contrast, Oman and Egypt are offering compelling, value-for-money experiences that resonate with travellers from the Silicon Valley of India.
"Travellers from Bengaluru are increasingly looking for unique experiences beyond the usual glitz," explained a travel industry expert. "Oman, with its stunning deserts, wadis, and rich cultural heritage, and Egypt, with its unparalleled ancient history, provide that blend of adventure and novelty at a more accessible price point." The trend highlights a more discerning traveller seeking both authenticity and smart spending.
Details from the Ground
The report, which brought this trend to light, was published on 15 December 2025, at 19:46 IST. It was authored by Amullya Shivashankar, capturing the changing dynamics in Bengaluru's outbound tourism market. The data suggests that packaged tours and flight bookings to Muscat and Cairo have seen a notable uptick compared to previous years.
For many Bengalurean families and young professionals, the holiday period is a key travel window. The appeal of exploring the pyramids of Giza or the fjords of Musandam, without the premium price tag of more commercialised destinations, is proving to be a powerful draw. This shift also indicates a maturation of the Indian traveller's palate, looking for deeper cultural immersion.
What This Means for the Travel Industry
The rising preference for Oman and Egypt signals a potential diversification of popular travel corridors from India. Airlines and tour operators are likely to respond with more direct connectivity and tailored packages from major Indian cities like Bengaluru. This trend could also prompt other destinations to market their unique, non-mainstream attractions to the Indian traveller.
For the consumer, this is excellent news, fostering more competition and choice. As one travel planner noted, "When destinations like these gain popularity, it often leads to better infrastructure and more curated experiences for Indian tourists, creating a positive cycle." The holiday season of 2025-26 might well be remembered as the time when Bengaluru's travellers charted a new course towards the historical and natural wonders of the Middle East and North Africa.
