Planning a trip for Eid Al Adha? UAE residents still have time to snag affordable airfare deals under Dh1,500

Dubai: As Eid Al Adha approaches, travellers across the UAE still have an opportunity to book budget-friendly getaways with a range of airfare deals available for under Dh1,500, according to travel agents.

While the exact dates for Eid Al Adha in 2025 are subject to moon sightings, projections indicate it will likely fall around early June. This means savvy travellers still have time to secure cost-effective flights to popular destinations.

For example, non-stop flights to popular destinations such as Tashkent, Bangkok, Moscow, Bahrain, and Cairo are all at affordable levels, according to Rashid Abbas, Managing Director of Arooha Travels.

Moreover, while the fares for travel during this period are at least 35 to 40 per cent higher than fare levels at the end of March and April, a last-minute deal is still possible at this point, according to Abbas.

“There are several affordable options for those seeking to travel from May 30 and return on June 6. The most cost-effective fares can be availed only 3-6 months ahead of the planned holiday,” said Abbas.  

However, many airlines, including carriers like flydubai and Air Arabia and national carriers such as Emirates and Etihad, often release special promotions and discounted fares leading to major holidays like Eid Al Adha. These deals cater to the many UAE residents looking to travel during the extended break.

Here is a breakdown of current airfares to top holiday destinations for travel from May 30 until June 6.

Nearby GCC countries (Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait): These are often good options for shorter, budget-friendly trips. Travellers usually find flights within the Dh500 - Dh1,000 range, especially on budget carriers. Economy airfares to Bahrain during these dates are averaging Dh715 from Dubai. Flights to Jeddah are priced at Dh602, fares to Muscat are Dh523, and Salalah is Dh737.

South Asia (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka): Many residents travel to these countries during holidays. Airfares can vary significantly depending on the specific city and the airline. Travel agents advise holiday goers to look for deals on budget carriers, but book in advance as prices can increase closer to the travel date. Return fares (non-stop Economy) to New Delhi are priced at Dh1,146 and Dh1,184 to Mumbai. Fares to Bengaluru are priced at Dh1,787. Fares to Colombo, Sri Lanka, is Dh955.

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore): These destinations are popular for longer breaks. Travel agents advise travellers to look for deals on airlines like AirAsia, Scoot, and others. Tickets to Bangkok are now priced at Dh1,281, and Phuket is Dh1,300. Flights to Singapore and Indonesia are relatively higher, with fares ranging from Dh3,275 to Dh3,345 (Jakarta).  

Eastern Europe (Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia): These are increasingly popular and often offer good value for money, said travel agents. Airfares might range from Dh800 - Dh2,000 or more. Return (From May 30 to June 6) airfares to Tashkent, a popular visa-free holiday spot, are up for grabs for Dh735.

Popular European Cities (London, Paris, Rome): Expect these to be generally more expensive, especially closer to the travel date. Budget carriers might offer options starting from around Dh1,500, but full-service airlines will likely be higher. Fares to London currently average at Dh2,995, and Paris fares are Dh3,715.US destinations: Airfares to the US have stayed consistent since the start of this year. Flights to New York are priced at Dh3,975, and Washington DC fares are at Dh5,253.

Be flexible with dates: Try searching for flights a day or two before or after your ideal dates, as prices vary.

Consider off-peak times: Flights that depart early in the morning or late at night might be cheaper.

Book in advance (when possible): While you still have time, booking sooner rather than later often yields better prices.

Look at budget airlines: Budget carriers can offer significantly lower fares, but be mindful of extra charges for baggage and other services.

Set price alerts: Many flight comparison websites allow you to set up price alerts for your desired destinations and travel dates, so you’ll be notified if prices drop.