As the UAE gears up to celebrate Eid Al Etihad, there is an evident surge in outbound travel, with the Maldives emerging as the top choice for UAE residents in their travel bookings for 2025. This increase in demand highlights a broader trend where winter holidays are becoming more popular, leading to an impressive 53 percent year-on-year rise in bookings for both local and international vacations.
Recent insights from dnata Travel reveal that the Maldives, Thailand, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka are leading the pack when it comes to travel destinations for the upcoming holiday season in 2025.
The Maldives has seen a remarkable increase in bookings, more than doubling compared to last year. This dramatic rise is largely attributed to competitive pricing strategies employed by resorts during what is typically a peak travel season.
Current promotions offer significant savings, ranging from 30 to 50 percent off at various private island resorts, making the Maldives an even more attractive destination for UAE travelers.
Thailand also stands out as a favored option for winter sun seekers, bolstered by enhanced direct flight connections from the UAE to popular spots like Phuket and Krabi.
Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, noted that many travelers are extending their stay beyond the long weekend. “With the expectation of a longer school holiday this December, we’re seeing customers combine their Eid Al Etihad break with the wider winter period for extended stays or multiple trips,” she said.
UAE Travel Demand Surges Ahead
The favorable weather conditions in early December significantly contribute to the allure of the Maldives and Thailand, while the UK draws attention for its festive markets, appealing to many UAE travelers.
A rise in demand for Umrah packages has propelled Saudi Arabia into the top travel rankings, and Sri Lanka is gaining traction with longer, more value-driven itineraries being sought after by vacationers.
On the domestic front, Ketait observes that travelers are increasingly opting for resort accommodations rather than city hotels. “A trend we’re witnessing is a focus on resort properties outside major urban centers, particularly in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island,” she remarked.
Looking beyond Eid Al Etihad, dnata Travel reports a growing interest in travel throughout the winter season towards destinations like the Seychelles, South Korea, the Netherlands, the US, and Finland. The European winter markets and ski resorts are seeing a resurgence, while interest in specialized Arctic experiences in Finnish Lapland continues to grow for travelers seeking something unique.