According to a recent report by Expedia, September 2025 has been named the best month for island travel, highlighting a significant surge in interest from both travelers and destinations. The study, part of Expedia’s inaugural Island Hot List, reveals increased demand for island getaways, setting the stage for a summer filled with adventure in the UAE and beyond. Whether travelers seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, this month offers compelling options for island exploration.
Expedia has released its inaugural 2025 Island Hot List, identifying the world’s top island destinations based on verified travel data and traveler insights.
The report shows that global interest in islands has increased by an average of 30 percent.
The travel platform’s analysis reveals September as the optimal month for island travel, with Paros and Sardinia experiencing 45 percent year-on-year growth in traveler interest.
Top 10 Global Islands
The destinations that made Expedia’s global Island Hot List include:
- Aruba (Best for Year-Round Sunshine)
- Bali, Indonesia (Best for Relaxation)
- Dominican Republic (Best for Adventure)
- Fiji (Best for Community)
- Jamaica (Best for Culture)
- Koh Samui, Thailand (Best for Affordable Luxury)
- Maldives (Best for Romance)
- Oahu, Hawaii (Best for Surfing)
- Paros, Greece (Best for Nightlife)
- Sardinia, Italy (Best for Food Lovers)
UAE Travelers’ Preferences
Expedia data shows rising interest in specific islands among UAE travelers. Cyprus leads with 140 percent growth, followed by Phuket, Thailand, with a staggering 210 percent, Malta at 170 percent, Madagascar reporting 265 percent, and Seychelles at 205 percent.
Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations, stated, “Powered by real traveler data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travelers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape. Island adventurers want standout stays, affordable prices, and seamless flight access. To achieve that, our top tips are to travel out of season when average stay prices can fluctuate by as much as 50 percent and bundle flights and hotels together.”
Tourism officials from featured destinations expressed satisfaction with the recognition.
The report emphasizes September as the ideal travel month for most destinations, though it cautions that Caribbean islands may face challenges due to hurricane season. Average hotel rates can vary by as much as 50 percent depending on the time of year, making it crucial for travelers to plan wisely.
Hotel rates range from AED 550 in Bali to AED 2,405 in the Maldives. Expedia members can take advantage of a 25 percent discount during the Halfway There Sale, with bookings required by July 21, 2025, for travel by October 31, 2025.
For those planning island travel, Expedia recommends several strategies:
- Travel during off-peak seasons for savings of up to 50 percent
- Use Flight Alerts through Price Tracking in the Expedia app
- Consider island hopping for varied experiences
- Bundle flights and hotels for additional savings
- Take advantage of member discounts during promotional periods
Koh Samui shows the highest growth at 55 percent year-on-year, with March identified as the optimal travel month. The island is positioning itself as Thailand’s wellness capital, attracting visitors for yoga retreats and detox programs.
Paros and Sardinia both demonstrate 45 percent year-on-year growth. Paros is emerging as an alternative to Santorini and Mykonos, offering design-focused accommodations and vibrant port towns. Sardinia attracts wellness seekers due to its Blue Zone status and agritourism experiences.
Aruba, Bali, Jamaica, and the Maldives each show a year-on-year growth of 15 percent. Aruba offers consistent sunshine along with expanded biking trails and eco-friendly accommodation options. Bali emphasizes zero-waste hospitality and wellness tourism, while Jamaica focuses on deeper cultural connections beyond the beaches. The Maldives is making strides in sustainability with solar-powered villas and coral farming initiatives.