Expedia Summer Travel Outlook: Spanish Hotspots And Island Escapes Emerge As Top Destinations For UAE Travelers

UAE residents are gearing up for their summer holidays, with a clear preference for vibrant European cities and tranquil island escapes this summer. Expedia’s® Summer Travel Outlook reveals the trendiest destinations for the summer season (June-August). Spanish hotspots including Mallorca, Barcelona and Ibiza are in demand, indicating a strong appetite for culture, cuisine, and beachside siestas.

“This summer, UAE travelers are setting their sights on a range of destinations that combine relaxation with exploration,” said Rehan Asad, Vice President, Global Markets at Expedia. “The surge in searches for Spanish destinations and idyllic islands reflects a desire for enriching cultural experiences and rejuvenating escapes. With our travel tips and helpful tools such as Price Tracking, Expedia empowers travelers to plan their perfect summer getaway, whether it’s exploring the streets of Barcelona or unwinding on the beaches of Seychelles.”

Summer in many of these trending destinations offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the energy of festivals and outdoor events. With warm temperatures and long sunny days, visitors can enjoy open-air concerts, local celebrations, and cultural performances. From the lively street festivals of Spain’s Balearic Islands to the traditional arts festivals of Bali, there’s something to suit every taste. These outdoor events provide a unique way to immerse oneself in the local culture and create lasting summer memories.

While exciting new destinations are trending, classic favorites remain popular choices for UAE travelers this summer. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other destinations within the UAE continue to draw visitors seeking luxurious staycations, world-class shopping, and diverse entertainment options. The convenience and familiarity of these locations make them ideal for quick getaways and family holidays.

Destination Insights

• Mediterranean escapes: UAE travelers increasingly seek out a Spanish summer holiday. Mallorca (+150% YoY), the largest of the Balearic Islands, leads the trending list, captivating travelers with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages like Valldemossa and Deia. Barcelona (+75% YoY), with its iconic architecture, vibrant art scene, and delicious tapas, is another Spanish hotspot in high demand. Ibiza (+25% YoY) remains a popular choice for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches and heritage sites including the fortified old town of Dalt Vila.
• Beachside locales: Both within and outside of Spain, beach destinations remain in high demand. Antalya (+105% YoY) on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast offers a blend of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and all-inclusive resorts. The Seychelles (+90% YoY) beckon with crystal-clear waters and unique wildlife, while Mauritius (+55% YoY) and Badung, Bali (+50% YoY) offer tropical relaxation and cultural immersion.
• Premium experiences: UAE travelers continue seeking out destinations with rich cultural history or shopping – and sometimes both. Milan (+85% YoY) attracts fashionistas and culture vultures, while Venice (+85% YoY) offers romantic canals and historic architecture.
• Accessibility remains key: Travelers demonstrate a preference for destinations that offer a balance of exciting experiences and convenience. Many trending hotspots, such as the Spanish islands and the European cities, are within a reasonable flight distance from the UAE, often with direct flight options or well-serviced connecting routes. However, the inclusion of Orlando (+55% YoY), home to world-renowned theme parks, indicates a willingness to venture further afield for the right experience.
• Social media-worthy moments: Trending destinations this summer offer plenty of ‘Instagrammable’ opportunities. From the turquoise waters and pristine beaches of the Seychelles and Mauritius to the vibrant street art and architectural wonders of Barcelona and Milan, each location provides a stunning backdrop for envy-inducing photos. The desire for shareable moments is clearly influencing travel choices this summer.

Best Time to Travel

For travelers planning this year’s summer vacations, early July offers significant savings for budget-conscious travelers. In this time period, travel prices are up to 40% lower than the seasonal average (a saving of more than $50 per night). Meanwhile, early June (4th, 6th, and 9th June) are the least busy travel dates, while August 1st and 11th are expected to be the busiest.

Summer Travel Tips:

• Price Tracking: Utilize Price Tracking on the Expedia app to monitor flight and hotel prices and receive alerts when prices drop.
• Book on a Sunday: Maximize savings by booking flights on Sundays, potentially saving up to 16% compared to booking on Fridays according to the 2025 Expedia Air Hacks Report.
• Flexible Policies: Look for hotels and flights with “free cancellation” or “reserve now, pay later” options for greater peace of mind.
• Book a package: Create customizable holiday packages on Expedia, bundling flights, and accommodation is not only more convenient but it will save you money.

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