These Emerging Destinations Are Must-Visit Trips for 2026, Say Travel Experts
Zanzibar, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia have been revealed as among the top trending travel destinations for 2026 by the travel experts at Away Holidays, who have seen a notable increase in customer enquiries and bookings over the last few months.
According to the insights gathered, the three destinations that have seen a significant spike in interest year on year
- Zanzibar is 32% up in enquiries YOY
- Saudi is 39% up in enquiries YOY
- Malaysia is 275% up in enquiries YOY
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia continues to surge in popularity, with enquiries up 39% year-on-year, driven by travellers seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences and distinctive accommodation. The ancient desert destination of AlUla is helping to drive this demand, with its centuries-old monuments and tombs combining cinematic backdrops with rich history and unique stays you’d struggle to find anywhere else.
Beyond AlUla, Saudi Arabia offers a wealth of breathtaking cultural and historical experiences across its Arabian deserts, dramatic mountain landscapes and unspoilt coastline. Home to the Red Sea, visitors can enjoy some of the best diving and snorkelling in the Middle East, thanks to pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.
Sacred cities such as Makkah and Medina, revered by millions worldwide, further appeal to travellers seeking culture, whilst the more adventurous travellers are drawn to its growing reputation for trekking, desert exploration and outdoor experiences. All of this, plus world-class Middle Eastern cuisine, Saudi Arabia is fast establishing itself as one of the tops destinations for travellers looking beyond the ordinary.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar has rapidly emerged as one of the most in-demand Indian Ocean destinations for UK travellers, with enquiries up 32% year-on-year, and is increasingly positioned as the new white-sand alternative to the Maldives, particularly for honeymooners.
With a pint of beer only costing £1.40 (or 5000 TsH) *, this archipelago in the Indian Ocean might not immediately spring to mind when considering a trip to a tropical paradise or planning a honeymoon, but with exceptional value and a vibrant culture, it’s got a lot more to offer than just white sand beaches.
Visitors can wander the bustling streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Indo-Arabian architecture and Swahili heritage, see rare monkeys at the Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, or snorkel and sunbathe on Paje Beach. Zanzibar is also famous for its spices, such as clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom and pepper, giving it the nickname the ‘Spice Island’.
With all of this on offer and teamed with standout East African cuisine, Zanzibar is becoming a go-to choice for adventurers and couples alike.
Malaysia
Malaysia is emerging as a destination to watch for 2026, appealing to travellers seeking diversity, value and contrast within a single trip. Ideal for multi-centre itineraries, the country allows visitors to combine vibrant city life with nature and beach escapes. Travellers can explore the energy of Kuala Lumpur, encounter exotic wildlife in Borneo, wander the UNESCO-listed streets of George Town in Penang, or unwind on the powder-white beaches of Langkawi.
A paradise for food lovers, Malaysia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes. From sampling authentic street food in Penang, widely regarded as the country’s food capital, to savouring fresh seafood in coastal cities, dining is a highlight of any trip – whether it’s a visit to a traditional night market or restaurant.
Senior product director at Away Holidays, Gianni Leone, comments: “Though some of these places might not immediately spring to mind as a typical holiday destination, they are rapidly growing in appeal.”
“Families are looking particularly at longer haul adventures, with Malaysia offering resorts in Langkawi and Borneo that combine wildlife adventures such as orangutan encounters and jungle explorations with family-friendly pools and tours.”
Holidays and tour recommendations
Saudi Arabia Hotel Recommendations
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Zanzibar Hotel Recommendations
Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort – Holidays from £1405*
Breezes Beach Club & Spa
The Mora Zanzibar – Holidays from 1479*pp
Sea Cliff Resort & Spa – Holi
Malaysia Recommendations
14-day Borneo wildlife tour – from £3489*pp
Sarawak Nature Tour – from £1849*pp
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah – Holiday from £1035*pp
Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang – Holidays from £995pp
The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa- Holidays from £969
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