UAE: The cost of flights to the United Arab Emirates has skyrocketed by up to 50%, with return tickets proving particularly expensive. Travel agencies report that flights back to the UAE are fully booked until mid-August, indicating an overwhelming demand for travel to the region.
Officials attribute this spike to the start of the new academic year in the UAE and the end of summer vacations. As a result, UAE residents are eager to return as soon as possible, leading to increased demand on airlines.
The price of return tickets has increased by up to 40% in countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. For instance, the cost of a return ticket from Cairo has reached 3,000 dirhams due to last-minute bookings.
However, the presence of low-cost airlines in the UAE has somewhat tempered the rate of fare increases. Passengers now have the option to choose airlines that fit their budget
Other reports also highlighted a significant increase in airfare for travelers returning to the UAE from popular destinations.
Prices for return tickets from Arab countries have surged from an average of 1,700 dirhams to 2,500 dirhams, while those from European countries have jumped from 2,200 dirhams to 3,000 dirhams.
In some cases, round-trip tickets to Europe are now priced as high as 5,000 dirhams.
Tourism expert Qayyum Aslam, speaking exclusively to travelsDubai.com, revealed a significant surge in airfare prices, particularly for return flights back to the UAE. This trend is most prominent in popular tourist destinations like Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon.
For the first time, the cost of a return ticket from one of Asia’s most popular destinations has reached a staggering 6,000 dirhams, even though tickets for most months of the year are typically less than half that amount.
Travelers are advised to plan their trips to the UAE well in advance to avoid the surge in airfare prices. Booking flights during the week instead of weekends can also help save money and potentially secure a seat, as demand tends to be higher on weekends.