Residents in the UAE gearing up for Eid Al Fitr holidays have been met with disappointment as airfares surge to popular tourist destinations. The excitement for the longest public holiday of the year has been dampened by a sharp increase in ticket prices, with reports indicating spikes of nearly 400 per cent for certain countries.
Firoz Maliyakkal, founder and CEO of Tahira Tours and Travels, pointed out in a Khaleej Times report several factors contributing to the price surge. “The ease of travel, visa-on-arrival facilities, affordability, and favorable weather make it an appealing short trip for UAE residents,” he explained. Maliyakkal noted a rapid sell-out of tickets due to overwhelming demand, leaving limited options available.
With authorities announcing an extended Eid break potentially spanning nine days, demand has soared, according to Libin Varghese, Operations Head at Rooh Tourism and Travel. Varghese highlighted the allure of Caucasian countries with their picturesque landscapes and favorable weather during this period, further fueling travel demand.
A comparison conducted by Khaleej Times revealed the extent of the surge, with one-way airfares to destinations like Tbilisi and Yerevan skyrocketing to Dh1,500 and Dh1,100, respectively, during the holiday period. Conversely, airfares to India and Pakistan sectors have remained relatively stable, albeit with a modest increase.
Raheesh Babu, COO of Musafir.com, noted a notable surge in travel demand to India from the Gulf region, attributed to the extended holiday and school spring break. However, accompanying the heightened demand are notable increases in airfare prices, ranging from 40 to 50 per cent on certain routes during the Eid Al Fitr season.
