Emmy-Winning Staycation Series Goes Global, Premiering in Dubai

AUSTIN, TX – May 18, 2026 – The acclaimed television franchise that turned domestic vacation rentals into cinematic experiences is now taking on the world. Making It Media and The Destination Channel have announced the global expansion of their Emmy-winning series with Staycation International, a premium travel and lifestyle show set to premiere its first episode from Dubai. The premiere will air on the CBS network on May 24, 2026, before becoming available for global streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Roku TV, and Tubi.

This move marks a significant evolution for the franchise, which built its reputation on uncovering extraordinary properties and local culture within the United States. Now, with Staycation International, the producers are leveraging their proven formula on a global scale, promising viewers an immersive look into some of the world's most captivating destinations, beginning with the glittering metropolis of Dubai.

From Domestic Gems to Global Ambition

The original Staycation series distinguished itself in a crowded lifestyle market by focusing on the stories behind the properties. Hosted by creator and producer Robert Parks-Valletta, the show blended high-end real estate cinematography with authentic human narratives, earning critical acclaim and a loyal viewership. Its success is decorated with multiple Regional Emmy Awards, including several from the highly competitive Pacific Southwest and Rocky Mountain chapters of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for categories such as "Lifestyle Program" and "Lifestyle Long-Form Content."

These accolades lend significant weight to the franchise's international launch. The production companies, Making It Media and The Destination Channel, have produced over 600 episodes of network television, establishing a track record for high-quality, scalable content that bridges entertainment with sophisticated brand storytelling. The expansion into international markets is a natural progression, building upon a foundation of proven success and a clear creative vision. The new series aims to maintain the core identity of the original—cinematic storytelling, cultural access, and a deep dive into premium real estate—while adapting it for a worldwide audience.

Dubai: A Strategic Global Launchpad

The choice of Dubai as the inaugural destination for Staycation International is no coincidence; it is a calculated move that reflects both the city's global stature and the show's ambitious vision. The emirate has meticulously crafted its image as a premier hub for luxury tourism, futuristic architecture, and exclusive experiences. For a series focused on high-end properties and aspirational living, Dubai provides a visually spectacular and thematically rich canvas.

Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has long pursued a strategy of attracting international media productions to bolster its global brand and drive tourism. This partnership offers a symbiotic benefit: Staycation International gains access to some of the city's most exclusive locations and experiences, while Dubai receives a platform to showcase its luxury offerings to a discerning global audience. The premiere episode is set to explore both the historic alleyways of Old Dubai and the breathtaking heights of its modern skyline, offering a nuanced portrait that balances heritage with architectural innovation. As host Robert Parks-Valletta noted, "Dubai represents ambition at the highest level, making it the ideal launch point as we expand into global markets."

Redefining Travel TV for the Streaming Age

Staycation International enters a media landscape where viewers are increasingly hungry for experiential and authentic content. The series is positioned to lead a new wave of travel programming that moves beyond superficial destination tours. By focusing on immersive storytelling and the people who shape a location's culture, the show caters to a modern audience that seeks inspiration and connection, not just information. The distribution strategy across both a major broadcast network like CBS and leading streaming platforms underscores a sophisticated understanding of today's fragmented media environment.

This multi-platform approach, which The Destination Channel refers to as a "Super Media Triangle," is designed to maximize reach and engagement across different demographics. The target audience—affluent viewers aged 25 to 64—is active on both linear television and digital streaming services. By making the content available across CBS, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Roku TV, and Tubi, the producers ensure the series is accessible wherever their target viewers are watching. This strategy, combined with high-production values and compelling narratives, aims to not only entertain but also to influence travel aspirations in the post-pandemic era.

An Inside Look at Dubai's Luxury

The premiere episode promises an insider's tour of Dubai's most exclusive offerings, made possible through a series of high-profile collaborations. The show will feature properties managed by Frank Porter Vacation Homes, a leading short-term rental company known for its portfolio of luxury apartments and villas. This suggests viewers will get a look inside some of the city's most desirable private residences.

Further burnishing its luxury credentials, the episode will also partner with Skywalker Yachts, offering a glimpse into the opulent marine lifestyle that is integral to Dubai's identity. Viewers can also anticipate visually stunning scenes from Aura Skypool, the world's highest 360-degree infinity pool, which provides unparalleled panoramic views of the city. These collaborations, alongside unique desert experiences from Noble Life Dubai and local insights from Myles Phelan of Inside Dubai Guide, ensure the episode delivers on its promise of providing unprecedented cultural and experiential access. With its Dubai premiere, the series firmly establishes its next chapter, promising viewers a passport to the world's most compelling destinations through a lens of cinematic luxury and authentic human stories.