Thailand Joins Malaysia, Vietnam, New Zealand, and UAE in Achieving Record-Breaking UK Tourist Arrivals in 2025 – Long-Haul Travel Soars to New Heights!

Published on December 20, 2025

The year 2025 has been a game-changer for long-haul tourism, particularly from the UK market. As travel demand soars, destinations like Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, New Zealand, and the UAE are leading the charge in welcoming back international visitors. According to official government data, the UK is showing remarkable growth as a source market, contributing to record-breaking arrivals in these countries.

With increased flight connectivity, tailored tourism offerings, and the ongoing recovery from the pandemic, these destinations have positioned themselves as top choices for UK travelers. Let’s dive into how each of these countries has benefited from the UK tourism boom in 2025.

Thailand: A Long-Haul Favorite for UK Travelers

Thailand’s tourism sector has seen a dramatic recovery in 2025, driven largely by the UK market. By December 2025, over 1 million UK travelers had visited Thailand, marking a historic milestone since the pandemic.

• Key Data: Over 1 million UK visitors by December 2025
• Revenue Growth: UK tourists are expected to generate over 80 billion baht in revenue, highlighting the economic significance of the UK market
• Expanded Air Connectivity: The introduction of direct flights from London and Manchester to key Thai cities like Bangkok and Phuket has made travel more accessible.

Thailand continues to attract UK tourists with its vibrant cities, cultural experiences in Chiang Mai, and stunning beaches in Phuket and Krabi. The government’s efforts to simplify visa processes and launch promotional campaigns have also played a crucial role in driving UK arrivals.

Malaysia: Tourism Growth with UK Travelers in the Lead

Malaysia is experiencing a tourism boom in 2025, with the UK market emerging as one of the key drivers of this growth. Official data from Tourism Malaysia reveals impressive growth in international arrivals, with the UK showing a consistent upward trend.

• Visitor Increase: Malaysia has seen a 20.4% increase in international arrivals, with the UK contributing significantly to this surge.
• Top Attractions for UK Travelers: The UK’s interest in Langkawi’s beaches, Penang’s heritage, and Borneo’s eco-tourism are key reasons behind the growing numbers.
• Cultural and Natural Appeal: UK tourists are drawn to Malaysia’s rich culture, vibrant cities, and lush jungles, with the Borneo Rainforest and Penang’s heritage sites being major highlights.

The continued increase in direct flights between the UK and Malaysia, as well as affordable travel options, are helping to cement the country’s status as a leading long-haul destination.

Vietnam: A Record-Breaking Year for UK Tourism

Vietnam’s tourism industry has also benefited greatly from increased UK arrivals, with record high numbers expected in 2025. The country is gaining popularity as a destination for UK travelers seeking culture, history, and natural beauty.

• Visitor Growth: Vietnam is on track to surpass 21 million international visitors in 2025, with a 19.3% year-on-year increase.
• UK Market Growth: While specific data for UK arrivals is still being compiled, it’s clear that the UK is a significant contributor to Vietnam’s growth.
• Top Destinations for UK Tourists: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay continue to be the focal points for UK tourists, who are attracted to Vietnam’s natural wonders and affordable travel options.

Vietnam’s efforts to expand air connectivity and promote its cultural heritage have made it an attractive choice for the UK market. With a growing number of flight routes connecting the UK to Vietnam, the country is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory.

New Zealand: A Thriving Long-Haul Destination

New Zealand has been a top choice for UK travelers looking for adventure, nature, and culture. Official data shows a steady increase in UK visitors, with September 2025 marking a notable rise in overall international arrivals.

• Visitor Trends: New Zealand welcomed over 3.43 million visitors in 2025, with a significant percentage coming from the UK.
• Adventure and Nature: Queenstown, known for its adventure sports, and Auckland, with its rich cultural heritage, are major draws for British tourists.
• UK Traveler Preferences: UK travelers prefer New Zealand for its rugged landscapes, wildlife experiences, and outdoor activities, making it the perfect destination for adventure seekers.

New Zealand’s sustainable tourism practices and focus on eco-friendly travel have also attracted UK travelers who are increasingly looking for responsible travel experiences.

UAE: A Luxurious Escape for UK Tourists

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, continues to see strong growth in UK tourism, with the country’s luxury offerings, shopping experiences, and world-class attractions appealing to British visitors.

• Tourism Boom: The UAE welcomed around 18.7 million international visitors in 2025, with the UK contributing a large portion of this total.
• UK Interests: Dubai’s shopping malls, the Burj Khalifa, and Abu Dhabi’s cultural offerings like the Louvre Abu Dhabi have made the UAE a prime destination for UK tourists.
• Flight Accessibility: Emirates Airlines continues to expand direct flights from major UK airports to UAE hubs, making travel even more accessible for UK tourists.

The UAE’s blend of modern luxury and traditional experiences continues to attract a wide range of UK travelers, from those seeking high-end experiences to those interested in exploring the cultural richness of the Emirates.

Why the UK Market is Driving Growth in Long-Haul Tourism

Several factors have contributed to the UK’s growing presence in long-haul tourism in 2025:

1. Improved Air Connectivity

Increased direct flight routes between the UK and key long-haul destinations have made travel more convenient, reducing travel time and costs for UK travelers.

• New routes between London and Phuket (Thailand), London and Langkawi (Malaysia), and London and Auckland (New Zealand) have significantly improved access to these countries.

2. Government and Tourism Campaigns

Governments in these countries have ramped up their tourism marketing efforts, specifically targeting the UK market. Thailand’s TAT and Tourism New Zealand have launched campaigns promoting their destinations’ natural beauty, cultural experiences, and luxury offerings.

• Promotions: Special offers, discounts on accommodation, and easy access to visa facilities have made travel more affordable for UK tourists.

3. Unique Travel Experiences

UK tourists are drawn to destinations that offer distinctive experiences. Countries like Vietnam offer cultural immersion, New Zealand offers adventure tourism, and Thailand and the UAE cater to those seeking luxury, beaches, and unique shopping experiences.

Summary of Key UK Tourism Trends for 2025

Here’s a quick summary of the key factors driving the growth of UK tourism to Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, New Zealand, and the UAE in 2025:

Conclusion: UK Tourism Propels Long-Haul Destinations to New Heights

The UK tourism market has been a driving force behind the 2025 tourism recovery in Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, New Zealand, and the UAE. With the rebound in long-haul travel, these countries have capitalized on improved air connectivity, targeted promotional campaigns, and unique travel offerings to capture the attention of British holidaymakers.

As 2025 continues, the future of long-haul tourism remains promising, with the UK market contributing significantly to the success of these top global destinations.