The South Indian state is anticipating a significantly lower turnout from Gulf residents due to high airfares and reduced flight operations.
Some Indian expats in the UAE are paying up to Dh9,000 for flights to India to cast their votes in the upcoming Kerala state assembly elections. Despite this, the state anticipates a much lower turnout from Gulf residents due to high airfares and reduced flight operations by Indian carriers to the region.
Muneer Berike, who traveled to his hometown in Kerala last week, said he spent Dh9,000 on a one-way ticket for himself and his family of four. The Dubai resident acknowledged it was a hefty expense but said he was determined to exercise his democratic right to vote.
“Ever since I moved to the UAE 19 years ago, I haven’t missed a single election,” he told Khaleej Times. “This year, I arrived early so I could also assist with some local campaigning work.”
The state assembly elections in several Indian states—including Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Assam—as well as in the union territory of Puducherry, are scheduled for April. In Kerala, polling will take place on April 9, with the incumbent Left Democratic Front (LDF) seeking a record third consecutive term under the leadership of 81-year-old Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Civic duty amid high costs
Ajman resident Asha Abdulkader spent Dh4,000 on a return ticket to Kerala on Friday, saying her priority was to cast her vote despite the steep fares. “I am someone with a keen civic sense and have never missed voting in any elections since arriving in the UAE 25 years ago,” she told Khaleej Times. She added that she was still deciding whom to vote for, carefully studying candidates’ track records and integrity.
Her sister, Nimmi, also spent Dh4,000 on a ticket, highlighting the importance of making her voice heard. “With India’s political scene becoming increasingly polarised, it is essential that we vote and make our voices count,” she said.
Impact of high fares and reduced flights
Typically, tens of thousands of expats from Kerala travel home to vote, with local organisations often arranging charter flights. This year, many have opted out due to high costs and limited flight options.
Vijay Thottathil of social group INCAS explained, “Ticket prices to Kerala range from Dh2,000 to Dh2,500 one way. Many are trying to fly to Bangalore and then travel to their constituencies. We expect a very low turnout of Gulf Malayalis this year.”
Nizar Thalangara, president of the Indian Association Sharjah, said his group decided against chartering flights. “We used to organise them, but current regional issues prevent it. The reduction in flights by Indian carriers has also significantly affected connectivity between the UAE and India,” he noted.
