Anticipated long Eid Al Fitr holidays spark travel rush in Oman, airfares to popular destinations soar

Muscat – Holidaymakers in the capital and outside are anticipating a long break, with the weekend clubbed along with the Eid Al Fitr holidays. However, as is typical during peak holiday seasons, airfares to several popular destinations in South India have skyrocketed in anticipation of the demand.

The general consensus is that this year’s holiday season is particularly busy, with both Eid holidays and school vacations coinciding, creating a surge in demand. As one travel expert pointed out, “This time, the Eid holidays and school vacations are overlapping, especially in the Indian sector, so it’s already packed. Even flights to Dubai are quite expensive now.”

South Indian routes, including Cochin, Trivandrum, and Chennai, are seeing airfares double or even triple, with typical RO 80-90 tickets now reaching RO 200-230. This price surge is due to the high demand, as families and expatriates are eager to travel, especially since schools in India are on vacation as well.

“Frankly speaking, the normal cheaper classes are not available at all. It’s already booked. Either the seats have already been booked, or the airlines have blocked them. We’ll know for sure in about a week,” a travel expert confirmed. He also noted that many holidaymakers have booked their tickets beforehand to avoid the price hassle and availability of tickets to South Indian destination.

Travelers are warned to expect further price hikes as the holiday approaches, with one-way fares from Muscat to Cochin potentially skyrocketing from RO 27 to RO 140-150.

Popular destinations such as Dubai, Thailand, Azerbaijan, and Europe are seeing a high volume of bookings. Travel specialists noted an increase in inquiries for destinations like London and Switzerland, while Georgia, which saw less interest previously, is now seeing a surge in demand. Conversely, Turkey has seen a decline in bookings due to expensive visa fees.

While Thailand continues to be a favourite among travellers, there is a discernible a shift in preferences from Bangkok to Phuket and Pattaya, especially for family vacations. However, Omanis have yet to begin booking in significant numbers. According to a travel agent, “Oman is typically the last market to book. Omani travellers often make their decisions just a week before departure, making it a last-minute market.”

As travellers prepare for the upcoming break, many are still holding out for possible seat releases from airlines, hoping for promotions or price adjustments. “The fare increases are significant,” said a local travel agent. “People are waiting for the 26th to confirm their travel plans, and then we can expect a surge in bookings,” he added.

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