UAE Now Joins Saudi Arabia, Europe, Japan, and Thailand in Higher Airfares Amid Eid Al Fitr Travel Surge

Published on February 23, 2026

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As Eid Al Fitr approaches, UAE residents planning to travel for the holiday are facing significant increases in airfares. With demand soaring, return economy tickets for travel between March 19 and 30 have nearly doubled from February prices, with some fares 15–20% higher than last year’s Eid. Popular destinations like London, Amsterdam, and Japan are seeing the steepest price hikes, as families and travelers rush to make the most of the long holiday break.

Surge in Airfares for Eid Al Fitr Travel: Destinations See Sharp Price Increases

According to travel agents, the demand for international travel from the UAE has been building steadily since January. With Eid Al Fitr set to fall at the end of March, travelers have been locking in their plans, especially for the period between March 19 and 28, to maximize their time off. The surge in demand has led to significant price hikes, with many destinations seeing airfares almost double from off-season rates.

For instance, return flights from Dubai to London now cost around Dh4,075, compared to Dh1,837 during the off-season. Fares to Lisbon have jumped to Dh4,674, while tickets to Osaka, Japan, have risen sharply to Dh7,995. Other popular destinations like Almaty, Bangkok, and Phuket are also seeing higher prices, with return tickets priced at Dh2,901, Dh4,005, and Dh4,855, respectively.

Abu Dhabi Travel Fares Also See Substantial Increase

Travel from Abu Dhabi is also experiencing a similar surge in ticket prices. Return fares to Amsterdam are priced at Dh2,730, while London tickets are now available for Dh4,090. Zurich and Berlin have seen increases to Dh3,890 and Dh3,310, respectively, while tickets to Saint Petersburg are priced at Dh3,505.

This dramatic rise in airfares is largely driven by increased demand for international travel, particularly to Europe, Asia, and other popular tourist destinations. Travel agents have noted that, despite the higher prices, residents are still eager to book their holidays, with many considering alternative destinations like Georgia, Baku, and Almaty, where visa-on-arrival access and fewer logistical hurdles make travel more convenient.

Rising Demand for Japan and Other Far East Destinations

Among the most sought-after destinations this Eid is Japan, driven by the cherry blossom season, which is expected to draw large numbers of visitors to the country. However, Japan’s popularity comes at a cost, as flights to Tokyo and Osaka are now priced 20% higher than other destinations, with holiday packages ranging from Dh11,000 to Dh12,000. While demand for Japan is high, visa appointment delays remain a challenge, as the embassy is seeing a backlog of applications.

Beyond Japan, other Far East destinations like South Korea are also experiencing strong demand, particularly from families and couples looking for unique vacation spots. Phuket and Krabi in Thailand are also popular choices, thanks to their visa-on-arrival access, making them hassle-free destinations for travelers looking for quick getaways.

Schengen Area Destinations in High Demand Despite Visa Delays

In addition to Far East destinations, European countries such as Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands have seen increased demand, though visa appointment delays for Schengen visas continue to be an issue. As a result, many travelers looking to visit these countries have had to book well in advance, as Schengen visa appointments for genuine tourists have been pre-blocked.

Travel packages to popular destinations like Switzerland and Paris are also 15–20% more expensive compared to last year’s Eid. Despite these challenges, the appeal of exploring Europe’s iconic cities during the festive season has kept travelers eager to secure their spots, even with the added costs.

Visa-on-Arrival and Easy Access Destinations Remain Popular Choices

As demand for travel rises, destinations with fewer visa requirements continue to be a hit with travelers. Countries such as Georgia, Baku, and Almaty remain attractive options for UAE residents, offering visa-on-arrival access and fewer bureaucratic hurdles compared to other regions. These destinations are perfect for those looking for a mix of culture, adventure, and ease of travel without the hassle of lengthy visa processes.

With the holiday season approaching and airfares continuing to rise, many travelers are focusing on destinations that provide flexibility and ease of access. Whether it’s the stunning landscapes of Georgia, the rich history of Baku, or the natural beauty of Almaty, these countries offer a wealth of experiences with fewer logistical challenges.

What Travelers Can Expect During Eid Al Fitr 2026

As the travel rush for Eid Al Fitr continues, passengers are advised to plan ahead and check for the latest updates from airlines regarding flight status and availability. With airfares at a premium, travelers should be prepared for higher costs and potential delays during the peak travel period. It’s also advisable to consider alternative destinations or book packages that include flexible travel options, as many airlines are reporting high demand and limited availability.

Despite the higher prices, the demand for international travel remains strong, as UAE residents seek to make the most of the extended holiday period. Whether heading to Europe, Asia, or the Far East, travelers can still enjoy an enriching holiday experience by booking early and considering alternative destinations that provide the convenience and comfort they need for a memorable Eid getaway.