UAE National Day Holiday to See Significant Rise in Airfares for Popular Destinations
Airfares for UAE National Day trips may nearly double due to high demand and fuel costs, with Maldives, Thailand, and Switzerland topping bookings.
Travelers planning to fly during the UAE National Day holiday in early December should consider booking flights soon, as airfares are expected to surge significantly. Industry experts warn that prices could almost double for sought-after leisure destinations amid strong demand and elevated oil prices.
The UAE will observe its 55th National Day from December 2 to December 6, 2026, offering some residents a potential five-day holiday. This extended break is anticipated to drive a sharp increase in travel bookings.
Rashida Zahid, vice-president of operations at musafir.com, noted that fares to destinations popular for visiting friends and relatives are likely to increase by 25-35 percent. Meanwhile, prices for high-demand leisure spots could potentially double during this period.
She explained that the extent of fare hikes will depend on factors such as the destination, airline seat availability, and how early travelers secure their tickets. Zahid urged early booking to avoid even steeper price increases closer to the holiday.
The regional geopolitical situation has influenced travel costs, with jet fuel prices nearly doubling since the Middle East conflict began in February 2026 due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This has contributed to higher airfare levels compared to last year.
Booking trends have shifted, with more residents making reservations closer to their travel dates, although long-haul and visa-required trips continue to be planned well in advance. Zahid highlighted that demand is steadily rising through the final quarter of the year, encompassing school holidays, Diwali, National Day, and the festive season.
Despite challenges, the return of several European airlines to the region is seen as a positive development that may help stabilize fares. However, travelers are advised against waiting for last-minute deals due to the expected surge in demand.
According to Meerah Ketait, head of retail and leisure UAE at dnata Travel, the Maldives leads as the top international destination for the holiday, followed by Thailand, Switzerland, and South Africa. These locations appeal to UAE travelers seeking quick, diverse experiences during a relatively short break.
The Maldives is favored for its four-hour flight, visa-free entry, and favorable dry-season weather in December. Thailand attracts visitors with its mix of beaches, city life, and wellness options, while Switzerland draws those interested in winter sports and festive markets.
An Emirates Holidays representative confirmed that island destinations such as the Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles account for half of all bookings during the break, with an average stay of five nights. Couples represent about half of these bookings. Thailand remains popular with an average stay of six nights, and Helsinki is gaining interest ahead of new Emirates flights launching in October.
Interest is also growing in emerging destinations including New Zealand, Portugal, and Tunisia. South Africa has experienced the most rapid increase in bookings, rising 58 percent year-on-year, while domestic travel within the UAE has grown by 23 percent.
Emirates Holidays reported that half of the holiday bookings were made as early as summer, as travelers aimed to secure preferred hotels and travel dates. Families now make up 48 percent of bookings, increasing from previous years, often combining public holidays with annual leave to extend trips. Couples account for 45 percent, with solo travel also on the rise.
Hotel bookings for the National Day period have increased by 23 percent compared to last year, reflecting strong demand for outbound travel during this holiday.