This study explores the respective impacts of push and pull motivations on destination choices by Arab Emirati tourists, with emphasis on cultural aspects. The researchers evaluated the adequacy of Crompton's sociopsychological and cultural model by examining why participants are drawn to destinations offering cultural contrasts to the norms prevalent in their usual places of residence. A qualitative approach was used to identify the aspects of destination choice that are most dependent on cultural context. It was concluded that pull factors should not be viewed in isolation because they operate alongside traveler cultural backgrounds in determining destination choices. Future researchers are encouraged to undertake further examinations of push and pull factors, taking full account of the hybridity of tourist motivations.