The UAE has come to the end of a week with skyrocketing prices for jet fuel used for trips abroad, making travel even more costly ahead of Eid Al Adha and the busy season. Airfare prices on some popular routes have jumped significantly, as travel demand grows during the summer travel season, according to travel experts.

UAE airlines are seeing robust bookings to London, Istanbul, Bangkok, Cairo, and other European cities. One of the biggest factors driving up ticket prices this year is higher operating costs, particularly fuel costs, industry analysts report.

Many families also reported that they are booking flights in advance to avoid further increases in prices due to Eid al-Adha, as it nears. Market watchers believe the limited availability of seats on the days of high demand is putting further pressure on fares, particularly in the last-minute travel segment for holidays during the summer season. 

Summer Travel Costs Continue to Rise

The trend is expected to persist during the holiday season and beyond, given the volatility of the fuel market and the increase in foot traffic in the industry. Captivated by the surge of crude oil prices, the international airline industry has responded by adjusting fares for airplanes that fly between regions and internationally.

The increased costs have made many UAE residents think twice about their budgets or cut travel plans to accommodate the increase. Some travellers are also moving to the local destinations in the GCC and Asia, where the airfare is relatively lower.

Although fares have risen, there is a strong demand for tourism due to the coming of summer vacations and families making their vacation plans. Travel companies are urging travellers to make well-informed choices and book early to find better rates this holiday season.

Flexible travel dates and mid-week travel could help save the traveller money during this summer travel frenzy, industry experts say.