Tech, travel, and fitness: What UAE's Gen-Z, young residents plan to spend on in 2025?
Gen-Z and young millennials in the UAE are adopting a strategic spending approach rather than splurging. This year, 76 per cent are prioritising home-cooked meals over dining out, reflecting a shift toward consumption. Meanwhile, technology, travel, and fitness emerge as top spending priorities or those aged 21 to 30.
A survey by Toluna MetrixLab reveals that 64 per cent plan to reduce frequent dining out, while 44 per cent are willing to spend more on premium dining experiences, indicating a shift toward quality over quantity.
A shift is also observed towards fitness, with 46 per cent of young UAE residents aged 21-30 increasing spending on gym memberships to maintain an active lifestyle in 2025.
These young consumers are trendsetters in the UAE and globally, influencing spending patterns and prompting businesses to adapt to their evolving preferences.
According to Global Media Insight, individuals aged 15 to 24 make up 12.7 per cent of the total population, while those between 25 and 54 account for 64 per cent.
'UAE's 21-30 age group is not just participating in the market — they are actively redefining it. Their approach to spending is calculated, selective, and experience-driven, blending financial awareness with a desire for quality and exclusivity,' said Georges Akkaoui, enterprise account director for MEAT at Toluna, a research firm.
'As businesses look to the future, the message is clear: this generation does not just buy products, they invest in experiences, value authenticity, and engage with brands that align with their lifestyle aspirations. The challenge for businesses is no longer just selling to them, but truly connecting with them on a deeper, more meaningful level,' he added.
Young UAE consumers respond strongly to incentives that provide real value, with 54 per cent motivated by price discounts, 38 per cent seeking value-for-money promotions, and 33 per cent favouring bundle offers.
However, beyond monetary incentives, 24 per cent of this group prefer brands that contribute to charitable causes on their behalf.
In terms of big-ticket spending, the survey found that only 20 per cent of young adults are considering property investments, 52 per cent have no plans to buy a new car this year and 28 per cent are inclined to invest in hybrid vehicles.
However, technology remains an area of continued interest, with 29 per cent planning to increase their spending on electronics, signalling a strong preference for smart devices, wearables, and tech-driven convenience.
Nearly 40 per cent of the young UAE residents revealed that they plan to take one to two international trips in 2025, with 35 per cent favouring the USA and 14 per cent choosing the UK as their preferred destination.
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