Dubai is having a moment—and not just with those who’ve already been. According to the latest data from Google Travel Insights, the city was the number one searched destination globally for hotel stays during the first quarter of 2025. That means more people around the world were looking to stay in Dubai than in London, Paris, New York, or even Tokyo.
And it’s not just hotel searches. Dubai also ranked second worldwide when it came to flight interest, showing that the city continues to be one of the hottest places on travelers’ radars.
So Who’s Looking at Dubai?
A big part of this travel wave is being driven by tourists from the UK and India. In the UK, Dubai topped the list of hotel searches, beating out even long-time favorites like New York and Paris. For Indian travelers, the appeal is even stronger—Dubai was number one for both hotels and flights. That’s not a small feat.
Travelers from the U.S., Germany, and France also contributed heavily to the search volume, putting the UAE high on their must-visit lists.
Tourism on the Rise—and the Numbers Prove It
Searches are one thing, but actual tourism data tells a similar story. In January and February 2025 alone, Dubai welcomed 3.82 million international visitors. That’s a 4% jump compared to the same period last year.
And people aren’t just visiting—they’re staying. Hotel occupancy in the city held steady at 87%, matching last year’s high rates. It’s a clear sign that Dubai isn’t just getting attention online; travelers are following through and showing up.
Why Dubai?
There’s something about the city that keeps pulling people in. Whether it’s the year-round sunshine, luxurious hotels, top-tier shopping, Dubai seems to have found the secret sauce. And with big events, smart tourism strategies, and constant development, it’s no surprise the city is staying ahead of the pack.
If the start of 2025 is anything to go by, Dubai’s tourism game is only getting stronger.
