The student traveller represents one-fifth of all international arrivals in the travel industry, today, making up a market value of about $320 billion. This demographic is willing to spend, to create experiences that go far beyond the backpack-and-party model that once characterised educational journeys abroad.

According to EduVoyage, an ITL World company, students in UAE expatriate schools and universities enjoy an average of three school trips per annum. Regionally, it's closer to one to two but there is momentum being seen on this front.

“Millennial student travellers are setting trends and driving a market rife with returns for travel industry verticals. To be successful in this space, brands need to commit to the opportunities the student traveller represents as he or she undertakes their journey. It is a journey that can now include not only tourism, but study, work, and volunteer efforts,” said Rafeeq Mohammed, CEO, EduVoyage and ITL World.

“From nature-based excursions to cultural immersion programs, educational travel provides a unique way to pursue specialised interests while also gaining a unique perspective of the world. Here in the region we are seeing a lot of interest in Space Camp certification and aviation-related programmes. Volunteering programmes are also gaining momentum and this includes Teaching Aid, Healthcare and Construction,” he added.

EduVoyage works closely with World Youth Student and Educational (WYSE) Travel Confederation.