As the Eid Al Etihad break approaches, dnata Travel has revealed the top international destinations for UAE travellers in 2025. The most booked locations are the Maldives, Thailand, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka.
The Maldives leads in
bookings, showing over 100% growth from last year, thanks to significant offers
of 30-50% savings at popular resorts.
Thailand also remains
a favourite, with direct flights to Phuket and Krabi.
Other rising
destinations include the Seychelles, South Korea, the Netherlands, the USA, and
Finland, particularly for winter experiences and festive markets.
Meerah Ketait, Head
of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “With the expectation of a longer school
holiday this December, we are seeing travellers combining their Eid Al Etihad
break with the wider winter period for extended stays, or multiple trips.
Bookings are up this year by 53% overall, including local and international
stays.
“December marks the
best time of year to travel to the islands of the Maldives and Thailand for
weather and swimming conditions. In contrast, the UK is popular for its festive
atmosphere and winter markets as the weather cools and evenings get darker. Umrah
travel demand is up for Saudi, while Sri Lanka is popular for more extensive
itineraries for exploration, and excellent value for money.
“For travellers
staying closer to home, a trend we’re witnessing is a focus on resort
properties away from the city, in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and on Abu
Dhabi’s Yas Island.” -TradeArabia News Service