Thinking of escaping to Europe for a breezy summer break? If you haven’t already secured a Schengen visa, you may need to rethink your plans.
Travel agents in the UAE report that visa appointments for the 29 Schengen countries are fully booked, with the next available slots only showing up from mid-August. Even if you manage to snag a rare appointment, the visa process itself can take up to a month—making summer travel nearly impossible for those who haven’t already started the process.
“There are no appointments for any country at the moment,” said Subair Thekepurathvalappil, Senior Manager at Wisefox Tourism. “Only a few slots for Greece in late July are available, but even those are extremely limited.”
Given the long wait times, travel experts are advising residents to consider alternative destinations that are easier to access and still offer incredible experiences.
Top Alternatives for Summer Travel:
- Kenya: Experience the Great Migration in July and August—a breathtaking natural spectacle with world-class safari experiences.
- South Africa & Zanzibar: These destinations offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a much simpler visa process.
- Asia’s Hidden Gems: Countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Japan provide vibrant cities, serene beaches, and more budget-friendly travel options. Plus, they’re ideal during the monsoon season.
- Turkey: For a European feel with easier access, Turkey remains a favorite. Turkish visas typically take about a month to process.
- Scandinavia: Some northern European nations still have Schengen visa appointments, but reaching hotspots like Spain or Italy from there can be costly and time-consuming.
While more appointment slots may open in the coming weeks, travel advisors recommend staying flexible and open to new, off-the-beaten-path destinations.
“We’re hoping embassies will respond to the rising demand soon,” added Subair. “In the meantime, travelers can still enjoy a memorable summer—just in unexpected places.”
