UAE Residents Flock to International Travel Destinations This Summer

Dubai-based travel giant dnata Travel reports a significant surge in international bookings for the summer season.

Bookings for July and August 2024 show a 35% increase compared to the same period last year, highlighting the strong preference for overseas travel among UAE residents this summer. dnata Travel is actively assisting a large number of travelers with pre-booked itineraries and late bookings through various channels, including its 14 retail stores across the country, as a busy travel weekend approaches.

Top Summer Destinations Revealed

Thailand, the Maldives, Mauritius, Turkey, and the UK emerged as the top 5 most popular destinations for international travel from the UAE this summer. Interestingly, Mauritius has seen a significant rise in popularity, joining the top three alongside established favorites like Germany and Malaysia.

This summer season reflects a clear shift in travel preferences. Around 90% of total bookings are for international trips, with only 10% opting for domestic vacations within the UAE. This is a stark contrast to the Eid al-Adha break in 2024, which saw a 65%/35% split between international and domestic travel, respectively.

Reasons for the Surge

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, attributes the surge in international travel to several factors. Destinations like Mauritius and Malaysia offer attractive options for beach vacations and luxurious resorts at competitive prices. Germany, with its vibrant cities hosting the UEFA European Football Championship, has also attracted a significant number of travelers seeking to experience the tournament’s excitement.

dnata Travel’s Role

dnata Travel remains committed to catering to this increased demand. The agency continuously monitors booking trends and collaborates with long-term international partners to offer exclusive rates to local customers. Their summer campaign features late travel deals to popular hot spots around the world, including Thailand, the Maldives, Mauritius, and Turkey.

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