As travel continues to rebound stronger than ever, UAE residents are setting their sights on new countries, unique experiences, and bucket-list adventures for 2025. With more direct flights, visa-on-arrival convenience, attractive packages, and social-media-inspired travel trends, this year is shaping up to be one of the busiest in global tourism.
From quick weekend escapes to long-haul luxury holidays, here’s a detailed look at the top global and regional destinations UAE travellers are choosing in 2025—based on popularity, affordability, experiences, and flight accessibility.
Top Global Destinations for UAE Travellers in 2025
1. Thailand — Still the UAE’s #1 International Holiday Spot
With affordable packages, vibrant nightlife, beaches, and cultural experiences, Thailand remains unbeatable.
Why UAE travellers love it
- Visa-free entry
- Excellent shopping & nightlife
- Family-friendly attractions
- Wellness & spa retreats
- Great value for money
Hotspots in 2025
- Bangkok (shopping, food & nightlife)
- Pattaya (beaches & festivals – including Tomorrowland Thailand 2026)
- Phuket (island hopping & luxury stays)
- Krabi (nature, beaches & tranquillity)
2. Georgia — The Winter Favourite
Just a 3-hour flight away, Georgia is a top pick for families and budget travellers.
Why it’s trending
- Snow activities in Gudauri
- European-style architecture
- Delicious food
- Extremely affordable
- Great for short weekend getaways
Top experiences
- Tbilisi city tour
- Kazbegi mountain views
- Gudauri skiing
- Wine tours in Kakheti
3. Azerbaijan — A Growing Hotspot
A blend of modern architecture and old-world charm makes Baku one of the most visited destinations by UAE tourists.
Why UAE travellers choose it
- Visa on arrival
- Stunning city views
- Winter-friendly
- Budget-friendly accommodation
Don’t miss
- Flame Towers
- Gabala adventure park
- Mud volcanoes
- Baku Boulevard
4. Maldives — UAE’s Top Luxury Escape
For honeymooners, couples, and luxury lovers, Maldives continues to dominate 2025 travel.
Trending experiences
- Overwater villas
- Private pool suites
- Spa retreats
- Water sports & diving
- Romantic sunset cruises
5. Turkey — The Culture + Shopping Combo
Turkey offers everything from historical sites to modern attractions.
Why it’s popular
- Seasonal festivals
- Snow experiences in Uludağ
- Shopping in Istanbul
- Hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia
- Variety of halal-friendly hotels
6. Japan — Rising in Popularity with UAE Travellers
With more direct flights and global buzz, Japan is a major 2025 travel trend.
Top reasons to visit
- Cherry blossom season
- Anime & pop culture
- World-class food
- Clean, safe, scenic cities
- Winter snow activities
Where travellers are going
- Tokyo
- Kyoto
- Osaka
- Hokkaido
7. Switzerland — Europe’s Most Loved Winter Destination
For families and honeymooners, Switzerland remains a timeless favourite.
Why travellers prefer it
- Breathtaking alpine scenery
- Scenic snow trains
- Luxury resorts
- Easy connectivity from Dubai & Abu Dhabi
8. Bali, Indonesia — Trending Among Young Travellers
A tropical paradise offering stunning landscapes and affordable luxury.
Why it’s trending
- Instagram-famous spots
- Affordable private pool villas
- Adventure activities
- Beach clubs & nightlife
- Wellness retreats
9. South Korea — A New Trend for 2025
The rise of K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean culture is influencing travel demand.
Top attractions
- Seoul nightlife
- Jeju Island nature
- Traditional villages
- K-style cafes & markets
10. UK & Europe — A Classic UAE Favourite
With improved Schengen visa processing and more flights, Europe remains strong.
Popular European choices
- France
- Italy
- Germany
- Austria (winter trips)
- Netherlands
- Spain
Top Regional & Short-Haul Destinations for UAE Travellers in 2025
Some destinations are perfect for a quick weekend trip — affordable, nearby, and easy to plan.
1. Oman — The Weekend Adventure Destination
Just a short drive or flight, Oman is trending for:
- Musandam dhow cruises
- Salalah winter escapes
- Mountains & wadis
- Camping & road trips
2. Saudi Arabia — Booming Tourism in 2025
Thanks to mega projects and easier visas, Saudi is getting massive UAE traffic.
Trending experiences
- AlUla heritage sites
- Riyadh entertainment events
- Jeddah beaches
- Diriyah cultural district
3. Qatar — A Clean, Convenient Family Destination
Perfect for:
- Museums & history
- Beaches
- Desert tours
- Mall hopping
- Food experiences
Short flights and comfortable packages make it a hit.
4. Bahrain — Popular for Short Breaks
A favourite for relaxing weekends.
Top Activities
- Beach clubs
- Arabian heritage sites
- Shopping
- Spa resorts
5. Jordan — Culture Meets Adventure
A popular mix for families and solo travellers.
Don’t miss
- Petra
- Wadi Rum desert camps
- Dead Sea resorts
- Amman food tours
Travel Trends Shaping UAE Tourism in 2025
UAE tourists are choosing destinations based on:
Key Trends
- Visa-free countries
- Quick & affordable getaways
- Festival-based travel (Tomorrowland, Songkran, Cherry Blossoms)
- Winter escapes (snow destinations)
- Luxury island holidays
- Adventure-based trips
Emerging trends
- Solo travel
- Digital detox trips
- Sustainable tourism
- Content-creator-friendly destinations
Final Thoughts
From snowy landscapes and tropical beaches to cultural cities and short weekend escapes, UAE travellers in 2025 are exploring the world like never before. Whether it’s Thailand, Georgia, Japan, Maldives, or nearby Oman, the demand for travel is at an all-time high — and packages are selling out fast.
Book your next country, or city tour today at CityLaila.com and make this trips one to remember!
