Travelers planning a trip to the UK can take advantage of historically low airfares, with return tickets from the UAE now available for as little as Dh900. This is a significant drop from the peak fares of December, which soared to Dh4,445.
According to a Gulf News report, direct flights from Dubai to London on British Airways are currently priced at Dh2,360, while connecting flights with airlines like Etihad Airways and Wizz Air start at Dh961. The price drop, estimated at 128% compared to last month, comes as the UK rolls out the next phase of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.
The ETA, introduced on January 8, is an advance travel approval required for foreign nationals who previously did not need a visa to enter the UK. Industry experts believe the new requirement has influenced travel patterns, though other factors, such as seasonal demand and increased flight availability, also play a role in lowering fares.
“The implementation of the ETA has contributed to changes in travel behavior, particularly for last-minute bookings,” said Abhishek Dadlani, CEO of Lushescapes in a Gulf News report. “Spontaneous trips to the UK are becoming less feasible, with travelers now planning their trips further in advance.”
Despite the low fares, travel agencies caution that the ETA process could impact last-minute bookings, as approvals typically take three working days. While some travelers receive clearance on the same day, the additional step has prompted some to reconsider their UK travel plans, opting for destinations within the Schengen zone that do not require prior authorization.
