During the upcoming National Day holiday, airfares to popular visa-free destinations like Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan have skyrocketed by up to 300 percent, with round-trip tickets surpassing Dh2,800. However, there are alternative destinations that offer visa-free entry for UAE residents, with certain nationalities exempt, providing more budget-friendly travel options.
"Travel demand is always high during the National Day holiday from November 30 to December 3," stated Bharath Aidasani, managing partner at Pluto Travels. "This year, the unexpected surge in prices to popular destinations from the UAE has taken everyone by surprise," added Aidasani. Travel industry executives informed Khaleej Times that UAE residents of many nationalities can consider exploring visa-free countries such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Seychelles, and Zanzibar, where ticket prices are currently lower.
"Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan have always been popular. Other destinations like Uzbekistan, Seychelles, Zanzibar, and Kazakhstan are preferred by residents, and their airfares have not yet increased," noted Pavan Poojary, travel consultant at Luxury Travel. "These visa-on-arrival countries for most nationalities in the UAE can be ideal during the National Day holiday," said Poojary.
For beach enthusiasts, "Seychelles and the Maldives are top choices for UAE residents," according to Aidasani. Both offer beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation. "With the rising demand during the long weekend, we recommend securing a seat well in advance," advised Aidasani.
For those seeking adventure and stunning mountain landscapes, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan provide excellent options. "The travel time to these countries is less than four hours. Given the limited number of days off, travellers prefer not to spend too much time traveling," explained Geoffrey Salatan, CEO of Geof Travel. These destinations are renowned for their rugged terrains, majestic peaks, and unique cultural experiences. "The cool weather and diverse activities make them appealing choices for UAE residents," said Salatan.
According to industry executives, Zanzibar is increasingly attracting interest among UAE residents. "Zanzibar offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Many UAE residents seek a different experience," commented Poojary. Industry executives report a surge in inquiries as UAE residents finalize their holiday plans. "Enquiries for these destinations have already begun, and we're observing a steady increase in demand," said Aidasani. "Fares are likely to rise further as the holiday approaches, so we urge travellers to book soon to avoid high prices."
