As the holiday season approaches, UAE residents are facing significantly higher airfares, with prices surging for popular destinations. With the year-end travel rush driving up demand, airlines are adjusting prices to reflect increased operational costs, including fuel and inflationary pressures.

According to industry data, UAE travel ticket prices are expected to rise by an average of 10.81% compared to the same period last year. This increase is impacting top travel destinations such as London, Paris, and Dubai, where demand remains high despite the elevated costs. However, Kuwait stands out as an exception, with fares reportedly 7.33% lower than last year.

Mamoun Hmedan, chief business officer at Wego, explains that the surge is a result of multiple factors: “This price hike is driven by heightened end-of-year flight demand, inflationary trends, and rising fuel costs. Airlines are balancing increased demand with higher operational expenses.”

Historically, ticket prices during the holiday season rise sharply as demand increases. Travelers looking to visit family or enjoy vacations are advised to book early to lock in the best prices. In previous years, late bookings have often resulted in further price hikes, with some travelers reporting increases of up to 30% as departure dates draw near.

This year’s pattern mirrors previous years, with many popular holiday travel costs continuing to climb. Travelers are showing a growing preference for major destinations, and even as prices rise, many are determined to proceed with their plans.