Sri Lanka has been ranked among the top three summer travel destinations for July and August by Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, based on its latest global booking and search data.
According to Emirates, flight searches for Sri Lanka have risen by 32%, positioning the island as a favourite destination for travellers seeking rich cultural experiences, pristine beaches, lush tea country, and affordable luxury.
As global travel surges this summer, Emirates highlights a growing trend of tourists shifting toward off-the-beaten-path destinations and immersive cultural experiences. Flight searches across the network have increased by 7% year-on-year, with Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Vietnam standing out as the most in-demand destinations.
Vietnam topped the list, registering a 61% increase in interest, followed by Mauritius with 41%, and Sri Lankawith its 32% jump. Emirates currently operates four daily flights to Colombo, connecting Sri Lanka seamlessly with Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.
The data shows that Sri Lanka’s popularity is growing across several key source markets. Travellers from the UK, US, India, Germany, and Australia are showing increased interest in Sri Lanka as a long-haul summer destination, with UK travellers alone increasing their searches by 12%.
Other top-performing destinations in Emirates’ network include:
- Japan, with a 28% rise in searches due to its unique culture and cuisine,
- France, which saw a 25% increase, fueled by summer events and tourism,
- And Dubai, which continues to draw global travellers year-round.
Emirates noted that Indian travellers are expanding their horizons to destinations like Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand, while German travellers show a preference for East Asia, including Japan, Vietnam, and South Korea.
The data also revealed travel trends:
- Solo travellers dominate inbound trips from the US, India, and Australia,
- Families from the UK, US, and India are opting for varied-length summer getaways,
- Couples, particularly from Germany and Australia, favour extended vacations lasting up to a month.
Emirates’ booking insights reflect Sri Lanka’s re-emergence as a top-tier global travel destination, helped by its diverse offerings, competitive pricing, and strong air connectivity. The airline’s strategic connectivity and tourism partnerships continue to boost Sri Lanka’s visibility as a must-visit location for international travellers.
