5 trending summer destinations for 2025: Emirates reveals top travel hotspots

Dubai: As international travel surges in 2025, Emirates has revealed the top summer getaway trends based on global flight searches and booking data between July and August.

Some destinations are perennial favorites, while others have emerged as surprising new gems. Here’s where travelers are heading—and why:

1. Vietnam: +61% in flight searches

Vietnam tops the list with the highest surge in interest. Emirates now flies to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, connecting travelers to a rich cultural tapestry, coastal escapes, and world-famous cuisine. The growing appeal is tied to easy connectivity from Europe and North America.

2. Mauritius: +41% in searches

Mauritius remains a favorite with Emirates travelers, thanks to its luxury resorts, nature trails, and stunning beaches. Two daily A380 flights make access effortless.

3. Sri Lanka: +32% in searches

From tranquil tea plantations to ancient temples and surf-ready beaches, Sri Lanka is gaining traction. Its balance of value and beauty makes it a popular pick for families and solo travelers alike.

4. Japan: +28% in searches

Japan continues to enchant global travelers. With 21 weekly Emirates flights to Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda, and Osaka, the country’s fusion of heritage and innovation keeps it high on travel lists.

5. France: +25% in searches

France’s classic appeal sees a fresh surge, especially with three daily A380s to Paris, and new services to Nice and Lyon. Whether for the Olympics, food, or fashion—France remains irresistible.

Other Emirates' summer travel trends

Travel habits across key Emirates markets show other shifting preferences and expanding horizons this summer.

In the UAE, flight searches have risen by 13%, with growing interest in destinations such as France, India, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Morocco, and Jordan, reflecting a mix of cultural exploration and convenient regional travel.

Meanwhile, American travelers are increasingly drawn to Africa, with Emirates recording heightened interest in Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa—destinations that blend rich heritage with adventure.

From the UK, long-haul getaways are in demand, as searches are up 12%, particularly to far-flung spots like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Sri Lanka, showing that British travelers are looking to go the distance this summer.

At the same time, Indian travelers are looking westward, setting their sights on Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, seeking cooler climates and new travel landscapes to explore.

How long are Emirates flyers staying?

• 1 in 3 Emirates travelers from India, UK, Germany, and Australia take extended breaks—over one month.

• US travelers prefer shorter 2-3 week summer escapes.

• Couples from Australia and Germany opt for stays up to a full month.

Dubai: Still a global magnet this summer

Emirates is forecasting strong inbound travel to Dubai this summer, supported by a diverse mix of visitor profiles and travel preferences. Solo travelers continue to make up a significant portion of arrivals, particularly from the US, India, and Australia, often combining business with leisure.

Families from India and the US are choosing shorter 1–2-week stays, while UK families are more likely to extend their trips beyond two weeks to make the most of their time in the city. Meanwhile, couples—especially younger ones from Germany and Australia—are embracing longer, immersive stays, with many spending several weeks exploring all that Dubai has to offer.

Bottom line? The Emirates summer travel trends for 2025 reflect a broader appetite for meaningful, cultural, and immersive travel. Whether it’s the beaches of Mauritius or the buzz of Tokyo, global travelers are clearly embracing adventure—and Emirates is making those dreams easier to reach.