dnata Travel, one of the travel service providers in the UAE, has revealed a 12% increase in international travel bookings in July 2025 compared with the same month of 2024, for travel in August and September, amid growing demand for last-minute holidays.
The company's data showed that the most in-demand destinations included tourist cities, cooler-weather regions and nearby islands. France topped dnata Travel's list of most-booked destinations in July, in line with its traditional summer tourist season, according to a press release published on the dnata website.
The company noted that a number of travelers from the UAE prefer warm destinations with a different character this summer, despite being used to high temperatures, with France among the top choices in August thanks to its mild evenings and the variety of cultural events in its cities during this period.
The Maldives came in second, continuing its almost permanent presence on the UAE travel agenda. Thailand and Turkey also maintained their positions as favorite destinations at this time of year. The surprise was Austria's entry into the top 5, amid growing demand from travelers seeking outdoor atmospheres and experiences.
For her part, Mira Kteit, Head of Holiday Sales at dnata Travel, said travelers from the UAE have become more specific in their choices, with growing awareness of what they look for in their holidays, whether mild weather, urban experiences in major cities, or nearby destinations offering a relaxing atmosphere.
She added that summer holidays are an opportunity for travelers to break their daily routine, with a focus on making the most of their time in destinations that suit their interests.
The data shows that city breaks are the most popular choice among UAE residents this summer, followed by family trips and then traditional beach holidays, reflecting a strong desire for experience-rich travel, whether a weekend in Vienna or a few days exploring Tokyo.
While most travelers continue to book their trips two to 3 months before departure, dnata Travel points to growing interest in last-minute deals, as a growing number of residents adopt more flexible travel schedules, favoring last-minute offers and bookings, with some trips booked just two or 3 weeks before departure.
In this context, dnata Travel recently launched "Secret Stays Maldives", a new luxury holiday concept in which the resort is selected in advance by the dnata Travel team and its name is revealed after the booking is confirmed, adding an element of surprise to the travel experience.
To view the post on the dnata Travel website, click here.
