February and early March remain cheaper; spring break and Eid push prices up
Dubai: With the school holidays nearing, UAE residents must decide between more affordable Ramadan travel or significantly higher fares during the Eid Al Fitr rush.
With the academic calendar scheduling the February mid-term break from February 11 to 15 and the longer spring and Eid holiday from March 16 to 29 (with Sharjah private schools resuming on March 23), travel demand is building in two distinct waves.
Industry experts say airfares remain attractively priced through February and early March, but prices are rising sharply for departures closer to Eid.
Why Ramadan offers better travel value
Industry experts note that Ramadan is typically a slower season for travel, creating opportunities for lower fares and better availability.
Safeer Mahmood, General Manager of Smart Travel Group, said airlines typically experience softer demand during the holy month, prompting more competitive pricing. Non-Muslim residents, in particular, tend to prefer travelling during this period, as fares are generally lower than during peak festive seasons.
He added that demand builds in stages. By mid-March, when CBSE exams conclude, both inbound and outbound traffic begins to increase. University students also represent a key segment, often travelling in groups for short getaways — departing on Friday and returning early Monday, Mahmood noted.
Fares climb as Eid approaches
However, as Eid draws nearer, the pricing landscape changes quickly.
Mahmood said ticket prices surge for Europe, the Far East and CIS destinations — markets favoured for short getaways due to easy visa access and pleasant spring weather.
With the school holiday overlapping Eid this year, fares are significantly higher than during Ramadan, and seats are selling out much earlier.
Shorter holiday reshapes travel plans
According to TP Sudheesh, General Manager at Deira Travels, many expatriate families are opting for quick visits home, with the brief break discouraging longer holidays.
Destinations known for convenience and straightforward visa processes — such as Armenia, Georgia and Baku — continue to top the list. In Asia, demand is rising for Malaysia, Bali, Vietnam and Japan, while enquiries from Arab travellers for Poland are also gaining momentum.
More extended and elaborate holidays, he added, are largely being deferred until the summer season.
Regional travel picks up as fares climb
As international ticket prices surge, more residents are turning to closer-to-home options. Industry sources say demand for Oman is increasing, and Turkey remains a popular choice for UAE travellers prioritising affordability and convenience.
For anyone set on travelling during the holiday, agents say the safest strategy is simple: book now rather than later.
