Airfare prices in the UAE are projected to rise by up to 50% as Eid Al Fitr 2025 coincides with the two-week spring break, creating unprecedented demand for travel. Experts indicate that the surge in fares could be between 40% and 50% due to the high volume of travelers seeking international flights during this peak holiday season.

As mid-March approaches, popular holiday routes are expected to see significant price increases. Travel agencies are bracing for a substantial influx of visitors to the UAE, which will likely contribute to higher ticket prices. To mitigate this surge, both UAE-based and international airlines are planning to introduce additional flights, but industry insiders advise travelers to secure their bookings early to take advantage of better rates. Promotions from budget and full-service carriers are anticipated as the holiday nears.

Eid Al Fitr is anticipated to fall on March 31, 2025, while UAE schools will begin their spring break on March 18. This overlap of holidays is leading to an early rush for flight bookings. Airfare to key destinations is already on the rise, with prices for popular routes seeing notable increases. For instance, fare from Dubai to Singapore is currently at Dh2,580, while Dubai–Tokyo tickets cost around Dh6,730. In Europe, the price from Dubai to London is Dh3,850—an increase of 20% from the previous month—and other destinations such as Berlin and Rome are also experiencing escalated prices.

Travel agents have cautioned that fares are expected to continue climbing, with increases of 40% to 50% likely on most routes after mid-April. Early booking is crucial for travelers planning their Eid and spring break vacations to secure competitive rates before the anticipated surge.

As for travel preferences in 2025, holidaymakers are increasingly drawn to both traditional and emerging destinations, including Spain, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka, which are popular for their sun and culture. Meanwhile, Vietnam, Japan, Italy, and Switzerland are gaining traction as rising travel hotspots.

To save on airfare, experts recommend several strategies. Booking flights 2-3 months in advance can lead to lower fares, while setting up fare alerts through apps like Hopper or Skyscanner can help travelers monitor price changes. Exploring alternative airports and using accumulated frequent flyer miles or credit card points can also contribute to significant savings. Opting for connecting flights instead of direct ones may lower costs further, and browsing airline websites in incognito mode can help avoid price increases linked to repeated searches. By implementing these strategies, travelers can maximize their savings while ensuring a well-planned trip.