Airfares to popular holiday destinations are expected to rise sharply, in some cases doubling, ahead of the UAE's National Day break this year, which runs from Wednesday, December 2 to Sunday, December 6, giving many employees a five-day holiday. Travel operators say the Maldives, Thailand, Switzerland, South Africa, and Mauritius and Seychelles are among the most sought-after destinations for the period.
Fares on routes typically used to visit family and friends have risen between 25 and 35 per cent, while high-demand leisure routes could see prices double, with an additional 12 to 25 per cent increase possible depending on remaining seat availability, according to industry data.
"With residents potentially enjoying an extended five-day break, we anticipate a significant rise in travel demand during the UAE National Day holidays," said the vice president of operations at musafir.com. dnata Travel reported that island destinations account for roughly half of all bookings made through its Emirates Holidays packages, with an average stay of five nights. Domestic UAE hotel bookings are also up 23 per cent compared with the same period last year.
One of the main drivers of the fare increases is the rising cost of jet fuel, which has doubled since February 28 this year following the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Travel advisers are urging travellers who haven't yet booked to finalise their plans soon, noting that most UAE residents typically book between three and 18 days before departure, leaving a narrowing window before prices climb further.