Maldives remains top international summer destination for UAE travellers
The Maldives has emerged as the most popular international destination for travellers from the United Arab Emirates this summer, accounting for one in five overseas hotel bookings, according to the latest booking data released by dnata Travel.
The travel agency said the Maldives led all international destinations for the season, ahead of Thailand, Mauritius, Canada and Australia. The figures reflect continued demand for Indian Ocean island holidays while also highlighting growing interest in long-haul travel among UAE residents.
According to dnata Travel, international holidays account for nine in 10 hotel bookings this summer, with destinations including Canada, Australia, Japan and the United States entering the top 10 most-booked locations. The company attributed the trend to travellers seeking longer, experience-led holidays and showing a greater willingness to explore destinations further from home.
“International travel is proving more popular than ever this summer, with nine in 10 hotel bookings made for overseas destinations,” said Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel.
“While traditional favourites such as the Maldives, Thailand and Mauritius continue to attract strong demand, we are also seeing rising interest in long-haul travel as customers seek new destinations and more experience-driven holidays. UAE staycations remain an important segment of the market, particularly for short weekend getaways, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Fujairah among the most popular domestic destinations this summer. Internationally, travellers are staying for an average of around five nights, with long-haul trips often extending beyond this. Demand for four- and five-star properties remains particularly strong, with average booking values up approximately 16% year-on-year.”
As part of its summer 2026 campaign, dnata Travel is promoting holiday packages to a range of destinations, including the Maldives. One featured offer includes a three-night stay at Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa in a Lagoon Pool Villa, with a complimentary full-board upgrade, return speedboat transfers and return flights from AED 7,055 per adult.
The agency said it continues to monitor travel trends and works with global partners to provide exclusive rates, additional benefits and curated holiday experiences for customers across the UAE.
