The United Arab Emirates has solidified its position as a leading winter getaway destination for British tourists, ranking second only to the Canary Islands in flight volume during the 2025-2026 holiday season. According to comprehensive data from global aviation analytics firm OAG, the UAE is set to receive 1,006 flights from the United Kingdom between December 20, 2025, and January 4, 2026.
The Canary Islands maintain their top position with 3,685 scheduled flights, while other popular destinations trail significantly behind: Morocco (952 flights), Egypt (796), Cyprus (348), and Portugal (245). The analysis reveals Dubai International Airport (DXB) as the third busiest airport for UK sun seekers with 776 incoming flights, surpassed only by Tenerife Sur and Lanzarote airports in Spain’s Canary Islands.
This surge in air connectivity reflects the UAE’s growing appeal among European travelers seeking optimal weather conditions during the winter months. Aviation experts note that UAE carriers have strategically increased flight frequencies to major UK destinations to accommodate the seasonal passenger surge. In a significant expansion move, Sharjah-based Air Arabia recently announced new direct services to London Gatwick commencing March 2026, operating double daily flights to enhance travel options between the two nations.
Dubai Airports’ traffic statistics further underscore this trend, revealing that London ranked as the top city destination with 2.8 million passengers in the first nine months of 2025, while the UK collectively contributed 4.6 million travelers during the same period. Aviation analysts highlight that Dubai International stands out as the only non-European destination in the upper echelon of UK winter travel preferences, representing the most popular long-haul option for British holidaymakers.