Expedia has released its Winter Travel Outlook for 2025, revealing that UAE residents are planning to travel to a range of destinations this winter season, seeking experiences that include ski slopes, tropical beaches, cultural experiences and city breaks.
Data from searches made between July 21 and October 26, 2025 on Expedia.com for travel between December 1, 2025 and February 28, 2026 shows a shift in travel patterns among UAE residents.
St. Moritz in Switzerland has seen a 125 per cent increase in searches, while Amsterdam in the Netherlands has recorded a 155 per cent increase. Krabi in Thailand has surged by 135 per cent. These figures represent the highest growth areas for UAE travellers planning winter breaks.
Destination trends show shift in UAE winter preferences
Searches for Madrid have risen by 165 per cent, making it the highest-trending destination. Prague in the Czech Republic has increased by 50 per cent, whilst Toronto in Canada has grown by 35 per cent.
For sun-focused holidays, Phuket and Bangkok in Thailand rank among the ten most popular destinations for UAE residents, with Krabi showing the strongest increase in demand.
Expedia‘s data reveals specific dates that offer financial and scheduling advantages for travellers.
So, when is the best time to book for winter holidays from the UAE?
February 3 and 15 offer the cheapest accommodation rates during the winter period. In contrast, December 21 and January 2 are the most expensive dates to travel.
For those seeking to avoid crowds, January 3 and 4 are the quietest times to stay. December 22 and 28 are the busiest travel dates.
“This winter, UAE travelers are embracing variety like never before, from tropical escapes in Thailand, festive European cities in Madrid and Amsterdam to ski adventures in St. Moritz. To make the most of these trips, timing is key; staying on February 3 or 15 can unlock the best rates, while bundling flights and hotels can save hundreds,” a spokesperson for Expedia Group said in a statement.
Europe’s winter attractions draw UAE visitors
Madrid and Amsterdam have emerged as the leading European destinations, with increases of 165 per cent and 155 per cent respectively. The cities offer cultural experiences, festive markets and architectural attractions to UAE residents.
Amsterdam’s rise reflects interest in cold-weather breaks featuring snowy conditions and canal-lined streets. The Netherlands capital has recorded a 155 per cent increase in searches.
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, has seen a 50 per cent increase in searches, attributed to its budget-friendly offerings. Toronto in Canada, known for winter conditions, has increased by 35 per cent.
Snow and Alpine adventures attract UAE travellers
St. Moritz continues to be the destination of choice for those seeking winter sports experiences. The Swiss resort has recorded a 125 per cent increase in search volume among UAE residents.
Interest in cold-weather escapes and snowy environments has surged across multiple destinations. These breaks offer alpine adventures and festive attractions.
Tropical retreats retain popularity
Thailand continues to provide a draw for UAE residents seeking warm-weather breaks. The country offers a mix of tropical beaches, culture and value.
Krabi has recorded a 135 per cent increase in searches, showing strong demand for short-haul sunny escapes. Phuket and Bangkok both feature in the top ten destinations for UAE travellers.
Black Friday deals and bundle savings available now
Expedia has provided guidance to maximise savings and experience on winter breaks. The company is running a Black Friday Sale from November 20 to December 2, 2025, offering up to 50 per cent savings on hotel bookings on Expedia.
Bundling hotel and flight bookings at the same time can result in savings of hundreds of dirhams on average, according to Expedia’s calculations.
UAE National Day on December 1 and 2 provides an opportunity for an early winter break, allowing travellers to preserve holiday allowance for the festive period.
