If you have not booked your summer holiday yet, travel agents are saying one thing clearly — do it now. The cheap flight options that opened up after Eid Al Adha are expected to disappear within days, and prices are set to rise sharply as July and August approach.
Book Now, Not Later
Rashida Zahid, VP of Operations at musafir.com, said the classic last-minute deal logic simply does not apply this summer. The current market conditions mean waiting is a risky move on most routes. Airlines did release more seats in lower fare categories after Eid, but that dip is temporary and is not expected to last.
She warned that for anyone travelling in July or August, the window to secure lower fares is closing this week — not next month. Booking two to four weeks early can save a significant amount, especially on routes from Dubai to Europe and South Asia, which are usually the first to see price increases.
Imtiaz Hussain Nasir, CEO of Pinoy Tourism, also said that residents with fixed travel dates should not delay any further. While occasional promotions may appear, the overall trend this summer points clearly toward fewer choices and higher fares for those who wait too long. If you are staying in the UAE this summer instead, there are still plenty of amazing Places to Visit in Dubai to enjoy a great holiday without flying.
How Much Are Fares Right Now
Fares on many popular routes are already significantly higher than last summer. Dubai to New Delhi is currently around Dh2,293, compared to about Dh800 during off-peak periods. Dubai to London is around Dh3,560, Dubai to Bangkok is around Dh3,360, and Dubai to New York has reached Dh4,890.
Nasir said fares to most popular destinations are running 20 to 30 per cent higher year-on-year, with some peak travel dates seeing even sharper increases. He pointed to higher fuel costs, strong summer demand, school holidays, and ongoing regional airspace adjustments as the main reasons. Families heading to Ras Al Khaimah for a short break instead can explore some great Restaurants in Ras Al Khaimah for a relaxed dining experience during the holiday.
Which Routes Are Selling Out Fastest
Travel demand is strongest on routes to the Philippines, India, Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey, Georgia, Thailand, Vietnam, and several European cities. Family travel routes are selling out the fastest because most UAE residents are travelling during the same school holiday window.
Arab regional routes are seeing the biggest price jumps. Cairo fares are up around 35 per cent, Beirut is up 30 per cent, and Amman and Damascus have gone up about 25 per cent compared to June levels. Long-haul routes to London, Paris, and Mumbai are seeing increases of more than 30 per cent. Flights to the Far East including Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and China are up between 15 and 18 per cent.
For those who prefer a relaxing summer evening closer to home, the Dubai Marina waterfront is a great option for a peaceful dinner and a stroll with the family. For more travel tips, local guides, and UAE news all in one place, visit everlist.ae and plan your summer the smart way.
