Dhaka, Nov. 16 -- With schools across the UAE closing for nearly a month from Dec. 8 to Jan. 4, residents are turning the extended winter break into a peak travel period.

Travel experts told media that December bookings have surged by around 35pc as families combine National Day, Christmas, and New Year holidays into one long escape.

"The period right after National Day has become the official start of the UAE's winter travel season," said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. "This year, UAE residents aren't just travelling for leisure, but for experiences that stay with them."

Travel agents report high early bookings to avoid soaring fares and limited seat availability later in the month. "Seats are filling fast for both National Day and...