The Maldives remains the top choice for UAE travelers during the summer of 2026. Furthermore, overseas holidays continue to dominate travel demand as more residents choose international destinations over local vacations. As a result, travel companies are reporting higher spending on luxury accommodation and longer holiday stays.
New data from dnata Travel shows that the Maldives accounted for around 20 percent of all international hotel bookings made by UAE residents this summer. Consequently, the island destination secured its position as the country’s most popular overseas holiday location.
Thailand and Mauritius also ranked among the leading destinations for UAE travelers. In addition, Canada and Australia completed the list of the five most-booked international vacation spots. These destinations continue attracting visitors seeking both leisure and unique travel experiences.
According to dnata Travel, international holidays represented approximately 90 percent of all accommodation bookings during the summer season. Therefore, overseas travel continues to outperform domestic tourism among UAE residents.
Travel experts noted that traditional destinations such as the Maldives, Thailand, and Mauritius continue enjoying strong demand. Meanwhile, an increasing number of travelers are choosing long-haul destinations like Canada and Australia to explore new cultures and attractions.
Despite the surge in overseas travel, domestic tourism continues to play an important role. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah remain the preferred locations for staycations, especially during public holidays and shorter weekend breaks.
Most international travelers booked holidays lasting around five nights. However, visitors traveling to distant destinations often extended their vacations to maximize their travel experience. Consequently, long-haul trips generated higher overall travel spending.
Luxury accommodation also experienced significant growth this summer. More travelers selected four-star and five-star hotels instead of budget options. As a result, the average value of travel bookings increased by approximately 16 percent compared with the same period last year.
Industry experts believe higher spending reflects growing consumer confidence and stronger demand for premium travel experiences. In addition, many travelers now prioritize comfort, exclusive services, and luxury amenities during their vacations.
Travel companies continue expanding holiday packages to meet changing customer preferences. They are also introducing more personalized travel experiences, flexible booking options, and premium services to attract high-value customers.
The strong demand for overseas holidays also benefits airlines, hotels, and tourism businesses across multiple destinations. Increased travel activity supports broader economic growth within the global tourism industry while strengthening international travel connections.
Looking ahead, travel specialists expect international demand to remain strong throughout the remainder of the summer season. Continued interest in luxury holidays and long-haul travel could support further growth in tourism spending. Overall, the Maldives continues leading UAE summer travel preferences while luxury accommodation and overseas vacations shape the region’s evolving travel market.
