Significant Drop in UAE-India Airfares as Travelers Eye Budget-Friendly Options

After peaking during the festive December season, airfares from the UAE to major Indian cities have experienced a significant reduction, with prices falling below Dh1,000 for economy class seats. This price drop is a welcome change for travelers planning trips during the typically quieter period from January to mid-April.

In contrast, fares to India’s tier-2 cities such as Jaipur, Varanasi, and Indore remain above Dh1,000, reflecting the limited flight options to these destinations. According to Rashid Abbas, Managing Director of Arooha Travels, despite the general low demand in the off-peak season, travel costs to smaller cities are comparatively higher due to fewer daily flights.

Travel agents are advising travelers to take advantage of the current low rates, especially for trips planned for February and March. Mehar Sawlani, Director of Sales at Richmond Gulf Travels, highlighted that some of the lowest fares to cities like Mumbai can drop to Dh813 during these months.

The disparity in pricing between major cities and smaller destinations is largely due to the reduced frequency of flights to less populous cities. Afi Ahmed, Chairman of Smart Travels, explained that full-service airlines have reduced their operations to these cities, leaving only budget carriers to service these routes, often with just one or two flights per day.

Despite the current low fares, the outlook for 2025 suggests that prices may not remain subdued. A slowdown in aircraft deliveries is expected to keep airfares high, as demand continues to outstrip supply. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has noted a significant reduction in aircraft deliveries compared to previous years, with a backlog that could take up to 14 years to clear, pointing to sustained higher fares in the near future.

For travelers looking to explore India from the UAE, the current period offers a valuable opportunity to book at lower rates before potential increases later in the year.