Britons are planning ahead for their 2026 holidays, with parts of Asia proving the most popular options.
Fresh data shows bookings to the Southeast Asian nation, Malaysia, have rocketed by 275 per cent compared to the same period last year, making it the top destination for UK travellers planning their spring getaway.
The top bookings for Easter 2026 show a move away from European holiday spots, and senior product director at Away Holidays, Gianni Leone, explained why this might be.
He said: "Though Malaysia might not immediately spring to mind as a typical family destination, it's rapidly growing in appeal for parents and kids alike.
'Resorts in Langkawi and Borneo combine wildlife adventures, like orangutan encounters and jungle explorations'
|AWAY RESORTS
"Resorts in Langkawi and Borneo combine wildlife adventures, like orangutan encounters and jungle explorations, with family-friendly pools and tours. It offers a mix of relaxation and hands-on learning that appeals to families seeking something different but accessible."
The Middle East is also proving irresistible to UK families. Doha has seen bookings more than double, jumping 130 per cent, while Abu Dhabi is up 77 per cent. Leone said: "Doha is increasingly on the family radar due to its innovative attractions and immersive cultural experiences.
"The National Museum of Qatar offers engaging, child-friendly exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. Combined with beachfront promenades and desert safaris, it's becoming a destination where parents and children can share memorable adventures in a safe, modern environment."
Abu Dhabi is carving out its own niche as an alternative to Dubai's more established tourist trail. Leone said: "Abu Dhabi offers families world-class entertainment options such as Yas Island's theme parks and the stunning Saadiyat Island, featuring beautiful beaches and wildlife parks."
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Dubai remains a firm family favourite, with Easter bookings climbing 38 per cent. Leone said: "Dubai continues to lead as a family destination due to its variety of resorts featuring kids' clubs, waterparks, and child-centric activities. Parents appreciate how the city balances luxury, entertainment, and comfort, while children enjoy endless opportunities for fun and adventure."
Singapore is also drawing more UK families, with bookings rising 33 per cent. The mix of striking architecture and lush green spaces is clearly winning over parents.
"Singapore is a compact, safe city that's easy to navigate with children," Leone said. "From the futuristic Gardens by the Bay to Sentosa Island's theme parks and aquariums, the city combines education, play, and convenience - perfect for families looking for a dynamic, hassle-free holiday."
The data suggests British holidaymakers are becoming more adventurous with their travel choices.
Doha has seen bookings more than double, jumping 130 per cent
|PA
Leone added: "These surging bookings prove travellers are expanding their horizons beyond traditional holiday spots.
"Destinations like Malaysia, Doha, and Abu Dhabi might not be the obvious family pick, but they offer a compelling blend of discovery, culture, and world-class amenities tailored to the whole family's needs. Easter 2026 is shaping up to be all about new experiences that bring parents and children closer together."
It seems the days of automatically heading to Spain or Greece for the Easter break are fading fast, with families increasingly keen to explore further afield and create memories in destinations that offer something genuinely different.
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