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We’ve found paradise, and it's in the Indian Ocean. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and unrivalled tropical tranquility, the islands scattered across the Indian Ocean are among the world’s most desirable destinations. For UAE travellers, the region offers the perfect blend of luxury, natural beauty, and convenience, with several just a short flight away.

With a variety of activities on offer, DW Travel can curate the perfect Indian Ocean holiday for any traveller. From family adventure to romantic and secluded breaks, here are some of the Indian Ocean’s most enchanting islands to help inspire your next holiday.

Unwind in the Maldives

Arguably the epitome of luxury, there is nowhere else on earth quite like the Maldives. Made up of hundreds of small islands surrounded by lagoons, it’s the ultimate destination for luxury and relaxation. Spend your days unwinding in an overwater villa, snorkelling among colourful reefs, or watching the sunset from a private deck. 

With direct flights from the UAE and year-round sunshine, the Maldives is an effortless escape for couples and honeymooners. Many resorts cater specifically to Middle Eastern guests, with halal-friendly dining and villas designed for privacy. With a raft of activities on offer, you can make stay in the Maldives as relaxed or family friendly as you choose. Check out our top picks for families visiting the Maldives here,or read up on our romantic recommendations in the Maldiveshere.

Soak up the serenity of Mauritius

Known for its postcard-perfect branches, Mauritius offers endless shorelines with a side of adventure. This volcanic island is erupting with culture, flavour and breathtaking landscapes. From emerald-green mountains and cascading waterfalls to Creole markets and historic tea plantations, the island is awash with natural beauty. 

For families, there’s a wealth of activities on offer. Choose from catamaran cruises, botanical gardens, and nature hikes through the lush Black River Gorges National Park. For couples, romantic hideaways and world-class golf courses abound. A year-round destination, Mauritius blends luxury with warmth and hospitality, just a seven-hour flight from the UAE.

Experience barefoot elegance in the Seychelles

The Seychelleshas long been a favourite spot for discerning travellers. With a focus on eco-luxury, the islands are lush and untamed with granite boulders and swaying palms framing the verdant landscape. Beyond its postcard beauty, the Seychelles is defined by its beaches — each one offering a unique blend of serenity, soft sands, and impossibly blue waters.

Explore Mahe’s white-sand beaches and vibrant Creole culture, wander through the rainforest trails of Morne Seychellois National Park, or unwind on the world-famous Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Georgette beaches. Don’t miss a trip to Curieuse Island to meet giant tortoises, or the remote Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife. Read more about DW Travel’s top picks for a holiday in the Seychelles here. 

Immerse yourself in spice-scented Zanzibar

Just over five hours from Dubai, Zanzibar blends tropical beaches with centuries of history and spice-scented charm. Wander through the winding alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site alive with Arabic and African influences, then unwind on the turquoise shores of Nungwi or Kendwa, where calm waters and golden sunsets await.

Beyond its rich heritage, Zanzibar’s beaches define its allure — soft sands, swaying palms, and warm hospitality at every turn. Visit a spice plantation for a taste of the island’s fragrant past, or take a dhow cruise to nearby Prison Island to meet the giant Aldabra tortoises. With visa-on-arrival access, halal-friendly resorts, and direct flights from the UAE, Zanzibar is the perfect blend of culture, comfort, and coastal serenity.

Get lost in adventure on Reunion Island

For those seeking something a little different, Reunion Island offers volcanic peaks, lush forests and rugged coastlines. This French overseas territory feels worlds away from the typical tropical island. It’s the perfect setting to hike through craters, wade in waterfalls tucked into rainforest valleys and lap up scenic drives along lava fields. 

While it gets a little less attention than its neighbours, Reunion Island rewards adventurous travellers with dramatic landscapes and authentic charm, all with a touch of French flair. 

Enjoy effortless island escapes from the UAE

Whether you’re chasing romance in the Maldives, family adventure in Mauritius, barefoot luxury in the Seychelles, spice-scented culture in Zanzibar, or off-the-beaten-path exploration in Reunion Island, the Indian Ocean has a paradise to suit every traveller.

With direct flights from the UAE and seamless planning from DW Travel, your perfect island escape is closer than you think. Explore our exclusive Indian Ocean holiday packages and start dreaming of turquoise waters, endless horizons, and unforgettable memories.