As temperatures continue to sizzle in the Gulf, UAE residents are looking abroad for a refreshing change of scenery. The trend is unmistakable—more travelers are ditching the desert heat in favor of cooler climates, scenic cities, and beachfront resorts. According to the latest data from dnata Travel, flight bookings have surged by 12% compared to 2024, driven by rising interest in culturally rich getaways, last-minute deals, and affordable flight tickets.
If you’re still planning a late summer escape, this is your ultimate guide to the most popular—and rising—travel destinations among UAE tourists for 2025.
🇫🇷 Paris & France: Europe’s Cultural Heart Remains #1
France, especially Paris, continues to dominate the summer wish list for UAE travelers. From romantic boulevards and café-lined streets to countryside vineyards and Alpine retreats, the country offers a diverse escape from the Middle Eastern heat.
The French Alps are drawing outdoor enthusiasts seeking cool breezes and nature-based activities, while Paris delights city lovers with its world-renowned art, cuisine, and fashion. With affordable flight options and daily departures from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, France is now more accessible than ever for summer travelers.
🇲🇻 Maldives: The UAE’s Favourite Island Getaway
The Maldives has long been a favorite destination for travelers from the UAE, and it remains high on the 2025 list. With direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons, this island paradise is just a few hours away.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a luxury retreat, the Maldives delivers with overwater villas, private dining experiences, and now, new surprise travel packages like Secret Stays Maldives by dnata Travel, which adds an exciting twist to traditional luxury travel.
🇹🇭 Phuket & 🇹🇷 Istanbul: Sun, Shopping, and Culture
Thailand’s Phuket and Turkey’s Istanbul continue to attract UAE travelers looking for value and variety. Phuket blends tropical beaches with luxury at a more affordable price point, ideal for families or couples.
Meanwhile, Istanbul is perfect for cultural immersion—offering Ottoman palaces, bustling markets, and a crossroads of East and West that captivates travelers of all ages. Both cities offer multiple weekly flights, flexible booking options, and great seasonal offers for August and September.
🇦🇹 Austria: A Rising Star for Alpine Adventures
A new contender in 2025, Austria is quickly becoming a go-to choice for UAE tourists seeking mountain air and cooler climates. With picturesque cities like Vienna and alpine escapes in Tyrol and Salzburg, Austria blends elegance with adventure.
The outdoor appeal of hiking, cycling, and lakefront strolls makes it an ideal summer alternative to more crowded destinations. Emirates and Etihad offer competitive fares to Vienna, and early booking discounts make Austria an attractive late summer pick.
Last-Minute Travel on the Rise in UAE
One of the biggest travel shifts this year is the surge in last-minute bookings. Travelers who once planned months in advance are now securing getaways just 2–3 weeks before departure.
This growing trend reflects a more spontaneous, flexible travel mindset. Many booking platforms now cater to this demand with dynamic pricing, last-minute deals, and flash sales on cheap airline tickets for top destinations.
Secret Stays & Mystery Trips: A Trend with a Twist
To accommodate adventurous last-minute travelers, dnata Travel’s new “Secret Stays Maldives” is creating buzz. This concept allows customers to book a luxury vacation with the resort revealed only after confirmation, making the travel experience more thrilling and cost-effective.
This trend is expected to expand into other destinations, offering value-rich surprises for those eager to embrace spontaneity with a touch of luxury.
Emerging Travel Gems: Greece, Japan, Czech Republic & Canada
While France, the Maldives, and Thailand top the charts, UAE residents are also turning toward lesser-explored destinations:
- Greece: Athens, Santorini, and Crete for history, beaches, and culture
- Japan: Tokyo and Kyoto for tech-meets-tradition adventures
- Czech Republic: Prague’s charm and affordability appeal to city break lovers
- Canada: Cooler summer cities like Vancouver and Montreal attract nature seekers
Each of these countries offers mild climates, rich history, and visa-friendly entry for UAE passport holders and residents. With growing demand, cheap flight tickets and package deals are becoming more widely available for these regions.
City Breaks Take the Lead in 2025
A notable trend this summer is the shift toward short, urban-focused getaways. More UAE travelers are opting for weekend city breaks over extended beach holidays. The appeal lies in fast flights, immersive sightseeing, and a quick cultural fix.
Cities like Vienna, Prague, Tokyo, and Paris are perfect for these 3- to 5-day itineraries, offering rich experiences without long stays. With daily departures, budget airlines, and discounted hotel+flight packages, city escapes are ideal for those wanting to travel light and often.
Final Thoughts: UAE Travel Trends Continue to Evolve
As the summer of 2025 progresses, UAE residents are embracing new destinations, spontaneous bookings, and adventurous travel formats. From Paris to Phuket and Vienna to Malé, the world is wide open for those seeking escape, enrichment, and excitement.
With more affordable flight tickets, better air connectivity, and unique booking innovations, planning the perfect getaway is easier than ever. Whether you’re a family planner, a solo adventurer, or a couple seeking a romantic surprise—the right destination awaits.
Now’s the time to book, explore, and make the most of summer while it lasts.
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