Island Escapes Lead UAE Traveller Bookings For Eid Al Etihad 2025, dnata Reveals

With the Eid Al Etihad holiday approaching, dnata Travel has shared the top international destinations for UAE tourists in 2025. Leading the list are the Maldives, Thailand, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka, according to their popularity.

The Maldives has seen a significant increase in bookings, more than doubling compared to the same time last year. This surge is attributed to enticing offers during this peak travel period, with savings of 30 to 50% at popular resorts.

Thailand remains a favourite for December travellers, with direct flights to Phuket and Krabi enhancing its appeal. This increased connectivity from the UAE is drawing many to its winter sun and beach experiences.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, noted that, "With the expectation of a longer school holiday this December, we are seeing travellers combining their Eid Al Etihad break with the wider winter period for extended stays, or multiple trips. Bookings are up this year by 53% overall, including local and international stays."

Popular Winter Destinations

The UK attracts visitors with its festive atmosphere and winter markets. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia's Umrah travel demand has increased, and Sri Lanka is favoured for its extensive itineraries and value for money.

Locally, there's a shift towards resort properties outside city centres in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi's Yas Island. These locations offer a closer-to-home getaway option for those looking to stay within the UAE.

During the broader winter months of 2025, destinations like the Seychelles, South Korea, the Netherlands, the USA, and Finland are becoming increasingly popular among UAE travellers. European winter destinations are also gaining interest for their festive markets and ski seasons, particularly Finnish Lapland's unique winter experiences.

Offers for Eid Al Etihad 2025

dnata Travel offers enticing holiday packages for Eid Al Etihad 2025. Options include a stay at Kurumba Maldives in a Deluxe Bungalow with all-inclusive amenities and return speedboat transfers, priced at AED 6,635 per person.

In Sri Lanka, travellers can enjoy three nights at Avani Kalutara Resort in a Superior Courtyard View Room with breakfast and return flights, starting at AED 3,199 per person. Additionally, a seven-night cruise on the MSC Euribia, departing from Dubai on 29th November 2025, visits Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island, priced at AED 3,500 per person.

dnata Travel's winter offers can be explored on dnataTravel.com or through their 14 retail outlets across the UAE, including locations like Dubai Mall and Dubai Hills Mall. Travellers can discover savings on popular winter sun, ski, and festive market-themed breaks, as well as Gulf cruises available during the holiday period.