Eid Al Fitr Holidays Spark Travel Surge in Oman as Airfares Soar
As the long-awaited Eid Al Fitr holidays approach, residents of Muscat and across Oman are eagerly anticipating an extended break, with many combining the holiday with the weekend. However, as is common during peak holiday seasons, airfares to popular destinations, especially in South India, have skyrocketed due to the overwhelming demand.
Increased Demand for Travel Amid Eid and School Vacations
This year’s Eid Al Fitr holiday coinciding with school vacations has led to a surge in travel activity. According to travel experts, the demand is especially high in the Indian sector, where flights to cities such as Cochin, Trivandrum, and Chennai have seen ticket prices double or even triple. What was once a ticket priced at RO 80-90 now costs as much as RO 200-230, with families eager to take advantage of the break, especially as schools in India are also closed for the holidays.
“With both Eid holidays and school vacations overlapping, this is shaping up to be one of the busiest holiday seasons in recent years,” said one travel consultant. “Flights to popular destinations like Dubai are also seeing a price hike due to the surge in demand.”
Skyrocketing Prices and Limited Availability for South Indian Routes
The increased demand has made it nearly impossible to find affordable seats on flights to South Indian destinations. Many of the budget-friendly tickets have already been booked, or airlines have blocked them in anticipation of the peak season. Travelers are advised to act quickly, as even one-way tickets to Cochin could see price hikes from RO 27 to RO 140-150 in the coming weeks.
Travelers should expect further increases in fares as Eid approaches, with many planning to book tickets well in advance to avoid inflated prices. Several airlines are already offering limited seat availability on these routes, so prospective passengers are encouraged to secure their flights early.
High Demand for Other Global Destinations
While destinations like Dubai, Thailand, and Europe continue to be popular among travelers, there has been a noticeable increase in interest in destinations like London, Switzerland, and Georgia. Conversely, Turkey has seen a decrease in bookings due to the high visa fees, prompting travelers to shift to other options.
Thailand remains a firm favorite, particularly for family vacations, with a shift in preference from Bangkok to Phuket and Pattaya. This trend is becoming more apparent as families look for destinations that cater to both relaxation and adventure.
However, Omani travelers have yet to book in large numbers, with many waiting until the last minute. According to a local travel agent, “Omani travelers are typically the last to finalize their travel plans, often waiting until just a week before departure. This makes the Omani market one of the most last-minute booking segments.”
Travel Trends and Insights for the Eid Season
As the holiday season draws closer, travelers are holding out for potential promotions or seat releases. Airlines may offer last-minute deals or adjust prices closer to the travel dates. A travel consultant explained, “The price increases are considerable, and many people are holding off on confirming their travel plans until closer to the date. We expect a rush of bookings by the 26th.”
For those planning a holiday during the upcoming Eid season, it is crucial to keep an eye on the latest travel trends and airfares to secure the best deals.
