Maldives becomes fastest-growing destination for Yalago hotel bookings in 2025

Bookings for the UAE increased by 43 per cent year-on-year, while the Maldives saw growth of 54 per cent, making it the fastest-growing destination compared to 2024

Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Yalago maldives
Image: Canva

Article summary

AI Generated

Yalago, the Emirates Group's accommodation specialist, has achieved its strongest year in 2025, with sales up 25% and targets met early. The UAE and Maldives led bookings, with China showing the most significant growth in source markets. The company aims for 'quality over quantity' in 2026, maintaining a high average booking value.

Key points

  • Yalago records strongest year in 2025, with sales up 25% and targets beaten early.
  • UAE and Maldives lead bookings; Maldives shows fastest growth at 54% year-on-year.
  • Focus shifts to 'quality over quantity' for 2026, with average booking value over $1,200.

Yalago, the Emirates Group accommodation wholesale specialist, has recorded its strongest year in 2025, with total sales increasing by 25 per cent year-on-year. The company surpassed its targets four months ahead of schedule.

The company sources rates for hotel stays and offers savings for trade partners and travellers. The growth reflects the team’s focus on pricing and accommodation inventory.

The top five destinations for hotel bookings in 2025 were the United Arab Emirates, Maldives, USA, Thailand, and Spain.

Yalago reports record year with UAE and Maldives leading hotel booking destinations

Bookings for the UAE increased by 43 per cent year-on-year, while the Maldives saw growth of 54 per cent, making it the fastest-growing destination compared to 2024.

Yalago has developed technology to sell Maldives accommodation, resort transfers and experiences through one application. The company’s position within the dnata Travel Group, which has more than 60 years of experience facilitating travel between the UAE and the Maldives, has enabled the team to secure rates and extras through partnerships.

Advertisement

China recorded the strongest growth among source markets booking hotel stays with Yalago rates in 2025, increasing 90% year-on-year. India followed with growth of 61 per cent, and the UAE with 40 per cent.

Spain, Italy, Germany, Brazil, and the USA also showed gains.

Yalago achieves $1,200 average booking value with focus on quality accommodation

Yalago’s strategy for 2026 focuses on ‘quality over quantity’ for its portfolio of accommodation options. The company reports an average booking value of over $1,200, which is above industry norms. This reflects the focus on offerings and partnerships.

“Surpassing our annual sales record with months to spare is a testament to the strength of our proposition and the trust our partners place in us. As we look to 2026, our focus on quality, competitive pricing, and exceptional service will continue to drive growth across key markets,” Sébastien Doussin, Senior Vice President – Global Travel Services & Destination Management, dnata Travel Group said in a statement.

The product team has prepared content ahead of the European selling period to ensure partners have access to rates and availability.

Advertisement

“With a growing global portfolio, excellent product and sales teams, and a commitment to innovation, Yalago continues to redefine value in the travel industry,” Doussin said.