As the holy month of Ramadan begins, the UAE is set to attract visitors from around the globe, especially from the MENA region.
According to Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego, the country has seen a significant rise in inbound travel, reflecting the growing appeal of the UAE during this culturally rich period.
Wego sees surge in visitor interest
“There has been an increase in inbound travel to the UAE during Ramadan. This year, there has been a 7% increase in the number of searches from the MENA region to the UAE compared to the previous year,” Hmidan stated.
“This suggests a growing interest in visiting the country during the holy month, likely driven by cultural experiences, Ramadan-specific events, and religious tourism.”
Mamoun Hmidan
The increase in visitors reflects a deeper connection with the UAE’s cultural and religious offerings during this special time. As people travel to experience Ramadan in its full essence, the country becomes a hub for both spiritual seekers and cultural explorers.
Fluctuating airfares during Ramadan
According to Hmidan, “Airfares have fluctuated during Ramadan over the past years. In 2025, the airfare to the UAE was recorded at $249, while in 2024, it was $262 during the same period.”
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Despite this minor reduction in prices, Hmidan acknowledged that ticket prices tend to fluctuate depending on demand, and special promotions or discounts are often available.
Meanwhile, Rikant Pittie, CEO and co-founder of EaseMyTrip, said that flight ticket prices and hotel bookings in the UAE are subject to fluctuations during Ramadan, driven by varying travel patterns and increasing demand as the holy month progresses.
“Flight ticket prices to the UAE during Ramadan fluctuate significantly,” Pittie explained.
Rikant Pittie
“In the initial weeks of the month, travel demand tends to decrease, leading to more stable or even reduced airfares. However, as the month nears its end, particularly during the last two weeks leading up to Eid Al-Fitr, travel demand surges dramatically, pushing ticket prices higher.”
Pittie also pointed out that airfares during Ramadan are generally higher compared to other months, due to factors like school spring breaks and improved weather conditions, which increase overall travel activity.
Surge in hotel bookings
The hotel industry in the UAE sees a steady rise in bookings during Ramadan, a trend that continues into the Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.
“In 2024, Dubai’s hotel occupancy was 78.2%, a slight increase from 77.4% in 2023, with an average daily rate (ADR) of Dhs538,” Pittie said.
“This indicates a continued upward trajectory in hotel bookings, especially during key periods like Ramadan and Eid,” Pittie added.
A diverse range of travellers
The demographic of visitors to the UAE during Ramadan is as diverse as the country itself.
“During Ramadan, the UAE welcomes a diverse range of travellers, including families, cultural tourists, solo travellers, and business visitors,” Hmidan said.
“Many families from the MENA region and beyond visit to experience Ramadan together, enjoying traditional Iftar gatherings and festive cultural activities.”
Cultural events, promotions
Cultural events and Ramadan-specific promotions also play a significant role in attracting tourists.
“Cultural events and Ramadan-specific promotions significantly contribute to the rise in tourism during the holy month,” according to Hmidan.
“The UAE offers an array of Ramadan-themed experiences, from grand Iftar and Suhoor feasts at luxury hotels to religious and cultural activities that highlight the spirit of the month.”
Not only are tourists visiting the UAE for the cultural experience, but a rising trend of longer stays has been observed as well.
Hmidan highlighted, “There has been an emerging trend of longer stays in the UAE during Ramadan, particularly among visitors from MENA. Many travellers prefer to arrive at the beginning of the holy month and extend their stay until Eid Al Fitr, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the spiritual, cultural, and festive aspects of Ramadan.”
Families, business travellers, and cultural tourists alike are opting to extend their vacations to engage in local Ramadan traditions.
“Families often choose extended vacations to visit relatives, partake in Ramadan traditions, and celebrate Eid in a vibrant setting,” Hmidan explained.
“Business travellers also extend their trips to balance work commitments with Ramadan observances,” he added.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
