UAE: Airfares from the UAE to popular holiday destinations could rise sharply during the upcoming National Day break, with travel industry executives warning that fares on some high-demand leisure routes could nearly double.
With residents potentially enjoying a five-day holiday from December 2 to December 6, 2026, demand for short-haul getaways and island destinations is already building. Travel experts are advising residents to book early before limited seat availability pushes prices higher.
Fares Could Rise 25-35%
Rashida Zahid, vice-president of operations at musafir.com, said fares on routes popular for visiting friends and relatives could increase by 25 to 35 per cent, while prices for highly sought-after leisure destinations could potentially double.
She said the size of the increase would depend on the destination, airline capacity and how early passengers make their reservations.
Travel demand is expected to strengthen further around the National Day break, with fares potentially rising another 12 to 25 per cent depending on seat availability and booking dates.
Higher Fuel Costs Add Pressure
Travel industry executives said higher fuel costs are also putting upward pressure on airfares.
Since the outbreak of the regional conflict on February 28, 2026, jet fuel prices have approximately doubled following disruptions linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the higher operating costs, Zahid does not expect fares to fall below last year’s levels.
She said prices are likely to remain broadly similar to last year or increase because of higher fuel costs and capacity constraints on some routes.
The return of several European airlines to the region could provide additional capacity and help limit fare increases, she added. However, travellers have been warned not to rely on last-minute deals as demand is expected to rise closer to the holiday.
Maldives, Thailand and Switzerland Among Top Choices
According to Meerah Ketait, head of retail and leisure UAE at dnata Travel, most UAE residents continue to book relatively close to their departure dates, with many trips reserved between three and 18 days before travel.
The Maldives is currently the leading international destination based on bookings, followed by Thailand, Switzerland and South Africa.
The Maldives remains popular because of its roughly four-hour flight time, visa-free entry and favourable dry-season weather in early December.
Thailand is attracting travellers looking for a combination of beaches, city experiences and wellness activities, while Switzerland is appealing to those seeking winter scenery, ski destinations and festive markets.
Island Holidays Lead Emirates Bookings
An Emirates Holidays spokesperson said island destinations are dominating bookings for the National Day break.
The Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles together account for around half of Emirates Holidays bookings for the period, with travellers staying an average of five nights.
Couples represent about half of the island getaway bookings.
Thailand is another strong performer, with an average stay of six nights, while Helsinki is emerging as a new option ahead of the launch of new Emirates flights.
Interest is also growing in destinations including New Zealand, Portugal and Tunisia.
South Africa has recorded the strongest growth, with sales up 58 per cent year-on-year, while domestic UAE bookings have increased by 23 per cent.
Staycation Demand Also Rising
The National Day travel rush is not limited to international trips.
Hotel bookings for National Day departure dates are up 23 per cent compared with the same period last year, according to dnata Travel.
Emirates Holidays said about half of its bookings for the break were made during the summer, as travellers sought to secure preferred hotels and travel dates early.
Families account for 48 per cent of bookings, while couples make up 45 per cent. Solo travel is also showing growth.
Many families are combining the public holiday with annual leave to extend their trips while preserving leave for the Christmas and New Year period.
With demand already strengthening, travel industry executives are urging UAE residents planning a National Day getaway to secure flights and hotels early to avoid significantly higher prices closer to December.
