As global demand for island escapes intensifies, Expedia has today released its first-ever 2025 Island Hot List, offering a data-driven look into the world’s most sought-after destinations. The report reveals a global surge in island-related searches, up by an average of 30%, and provides crucial insights into the unique travel patterns emerging from the UAE.
While the global list features perennial favourites like Koh Samui, Jamaica, and Fiji, the data points to a distinct set of trending destinations for UAE residents. The report highlights a massive spike in interest for islands that combine accessibility, novelty, and value. Leading the charge is Madagascar with a remarkable +265% year-on-year increase in searches from the UAE, followed closely by Phuket, Thailand (+210%), Seychelles (+205%), Malta (170%), and Cyprus (140%).
This trend opens up a opportunity for the region’s travel and tourism operators to cater to a market seeking fresh, yet convenient, getaways beyond the traditional hotspots.
“Powered by real traveler data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travellers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape. Island adventurers want standout stays, affordable prices and seamless flight access. To get that, our top tips are to travel out of season when average stay prices can fluctuate by as much as 50% and bundle flights and hotels together.” – Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations.
The comprehensive report, which analyses factors from flight connectivity to accommodation quality, identifies September as the ideal month for island travel on average, striking a balance between affordability and favourable weather conditions (outside of the Caribbean’s hurricane season). This presents a strategic window for travel professionals to promote shoulder-season travel, especially to European islands like Paros and Sardinia, where prices can drop by as much as 35% compared to the August peak.
Expedia’s Global 2025 Island Hot List:
- Aruba (Best for Year-Round Sunshine)
- Bali, Indonesia (Best for Relaxation)
- Dominican Republic (Best for Adventure)
- Fiji (Best for Community)
- Jamaica (Best for Culture)
- Koh Samui, Thailand (Best for Affordable Luxury)
- Maldives (Best for Romance)
- Oahu, Hawaii (Best for Surfing)
- Paros, Greece (Best for Nightlife)
- Sardinia, Italy (Best for Food Lovers)
For travel trade partners, Expedia’s current ‘Halfway There Sale’, running until 21 July 2025, offers a timely tool to drive bookings, with savings of 25% or more on select hotels for travel through 31 October 2025.
