UAE Travellers Choose Maldives for Late Summer Getaways

Saturday 9th of August 2025

The Maldives has once again been affirmed as a premier destination for the UAE market, securing the position of the second most booked destination for travel in August and September. According to new data from dnata Travel, the Maldives remains a consistently popular choice for UAE travellers, trailing only France for late summer bookings. The report also highlighted a robust 12% year-on-year increase in overall travel bookings for the period.

Capitalising on the destination’s sustained popularity, dnata Travel has launched an innovative new product, Secret Stays Maldives. This campaign offers travellers curated luxury holidays where the name of the resort is revealed only after the booking is completed. The concept is strategically designed to appeal to flexible travellers seeking high-end experiences at exceptional value, creating a new avenue for Maldivian resorts to capture the market.

While the demand for city breaks and cooler climates placed France in the top spot, the Maldives’ strong performance highlights its unique and enduring appeal. The top five destinations for the UAE market were rounded out by Thailand, Turkey, and Austria.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure at dnata Travel, commented on the trends, stating that UAE travellers are prioritising value and experience:

“Many are looking for vibrant city breaks or easier alternatives to the intense summer heat. It’s about making the most of their time away,” she said.

For Maldivian hoteliers, the data reveals a critical insight into booking patterns: a growing number of customers are finalising their travel plans within a short window of just two to three weeks before departure. While city breaks lead as the most popular trip type overall from the UAE, the Maldives’ high ranking underscores the powerful and unwavering demand for luxury beach escapes among the region’s travellers.