Home » TRAVEL NEWS » United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Thailand, United Kingdom, Japan, France, and Indonesia Lead Global Travel Trends, With Indian Tourists Flocking to These Popular Destinations in 2025
Published on
August 29, 2025
The United Arab Emirates, with Dubai’s luxury shopping, desert adventures, and diverse cuisine, remains a favourite for families and honeymooners. Singapore and Thailand continue to allure with their mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty, while Japan’s seasonal attractions and culinary offerings captivate tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation. France and the United Kingdom remain popular for their rich history and iconic landmarks, and Indonesia’s serene beaches and cultural heritage attract those looking for both leisure and exploration. These destinations reflect the growing trend of short-haul, culturally immersive travel, with Indian tourists increasingly prioritising accessibility and meaningful travel experiences.
Dubai has secured its spot as the most-searched international destination by Indian tourists, according to Booking.com’s latest travel trends report. The findings reveal a significant shift in travel preferences, with Indian travellers increasingly looking towards short-haul, culturally immersive, and visa-friendly international holidays. Dubai’s rise in popularity is attributed to a remarkable 62% year-on-year surge in search interest, reinforcing its standing as a major global travel hub. The city’s appeal lies in its effortless connectivity, luxurious shopping malls, thrilling desert safaris, world-class theme parks, and diverse global cuisine, making it a top choice for families, honeymooners, and solo travellers alike.
Dominance of Asia-Pacific Destinations
The report highlights that the Asia-Pacific region continues to dominate as a preferred travel zone for Indian tourists. After Dubai, Singapore ranks second, while Bangkok follows closely behind in third place. Tokyo has also made a significant leap, landing in the top five with a 90% increase in accommodation searches. This surge in Tokyo’s popularity can be attributed to the city’s seasonal beauty, vibrant pop culture, and unparalleled culinary offerings. In total, eight out of the top ten most-searched international destinations are in the Asia-Pacific region, further underscoring the trend of short-haul travel among Indian tourists.
Leading International Destinations for Indian Tourists
- Dubai
- Singapore
- Bangkok
- London
- Tokyo
- Paris
- Kuala Lumpur
- Phuket
- Bali
- Abu Dhabi
Asia-Pacific Still Leading in Appeal
Among Asia-Pacific destinations, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand retain strong appeal. Japan, particularly its capital Tokyo, continues to be a key destination for international and domestic travellers alike, with the country’s rich cultural offerings, cherry blossoms, and culinary experiences attracting global visitors. South Korea and Thailand remain favorites, particularly among younger travellers, thanks to their dynamic blend of cultural immersion, shopping opportunities, and wellness experiences.
In India, the major metropolitan cities of Bengaluru, Mumbai, and New Delhi top the list of domestic destinations, driven by business travel, family visits, and an increasing demand for weekend escapes. The demand for leisure destinations is also on the rise, with places known for their natural beauty, wellness offerings, and cultural depth showing significant increases in accommodation searches. Notable among these are Ooty, Rishikesh, Lonavala, Jaipur, and Puducherry, which have seen a 25% rise in interest compared to the previous year.
Wellness and Nature Travel: A Growing Trend
The report highlights a growing trend towards wellness retreats, nature-based holidays, and cultural immersion experiences. As global travel trends evolve, Indian travellers are increasingly seeking out destinations that offer peace and restoration. Yoga retreats, forest walks, heritage stays, and local culinary experiences are becoming more sought after, indicating a broader shift towards slow travel, noctourism, and purpose-driven journeys.
This trend reflects a broader movement where travellers prioritise health, wellness, and a deeper connection with their destinations. From serene wellness retreats in the Indian Himalayas to spiritual journeys in places like Rishikesh, the focus is on mindful and restorative travel.
The Rise of Intentional Travel in 2025
The data reveals a notable shift in the travel mindset of Indian tourists: ease of access, cultural richness, and unique experiences are now the top priorities. Whether it’s a luxurious escape to Dubai, a cultural exploration in Tokyo, or a rejuvenating retreat in Rishikesh, 2025 is set to be a year of intentional travel.
As 84% of Indian travellers express optimism about their travel plans, the travel industry is well-positioned to meet this demand with seamless booking experiences, curated itineraries, and a growing range of travel options. The increasing desire for meaningful and tailored travel experiences will continue to shape the future of global tourism.
In 2025, Indian tourists are gravitating towards culturally rich and accessible destinations, with the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, and Indonesia topping the list. These countries offer a blend of luxury, heritage, and unique experiences, making them ideal choices for Indian travellers seeking meaningful and enjoyable holidays.
In conclusion, as Indian tourists seek more personalised, enriching, and accessible travel experiences, destinations that combine luxury, culture, wellness, and natural beauty will see continued growth in search interest. Dubai’s top spot is just one example of this broader trend, with travellers increasingly seeking destinations that offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
