Gulf tourists tout Polish mountain town as a chilly gem
In the heart of southern Poland, the picturesque town of Zakopane has become a major summer draw for holidaymakers from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. The town's scenic mountain landscapes, extensive hiking opportunities, and a pleasant cool climate in summer offer a stark contrast to the hot Gulf weather, making it an ideal destination for both active and relaxing vacations.
Last year, Emiratis were Poland's fastest-growing tourist group, with numbers 66 percent higher than in 2023. This surge in popularity can be attributed to several factors, including the launch of the Dubai-Krakow connection by Flydubai in 2018. Up to seven daily flights from the region are available at nearby Krakow Airport to Zakopane, making travel convenient for Gulf visitors.
The hospitality industry in Zakopane has adapted to cater to the preferences of Middle East visitors. Menus are offered in both Polish and Arabic, and many establishments have a "halal" certificate. Saudi photographer Fahad Alayyash and thousands of other Gulf residents are spending their summer vacations in Zakopane, finding respite from the infernal summer heat that sometimes reaches 50C in their home region.
Manal Alanazy, a 45-year-old educational technology professor at King Saud University, has mentioned that Zakopane is well-known among Saudis. Arab tourists cite the feeling of safety as one of Zakopane's key assets. In fact, up to 30 percent of all summer guests at some hotels in Zakopane are Arab customers.
Zakopane offers well-marked trails in the Tatra National Park suitable for all levels, picturesque valleys, lakes, and thermal baths. Popular sites like Gubalowka peak, hiking trails, and thermal pools are favourite spots for Gulf visitors. The town's alpine-like scenery, historic wooden architecture mixed with modern hotels, and warm hospitality make it an attractive destination for tourists from the Gulf.
In summary, Zakopane’s appeal to tourists from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait stems from its unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, warm hospitality, and convenient flight connections. The town's cool mountain retreat effectively counters the intense summer heat of the Gulf states, making it an ideal summer escape for many.
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