Dubai Cricket Clash Spurs Travel Price Surge
India vs Pakistan in Dubai: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Could Hike Airfares by 50%
One of the most anticipated matches of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the India-Pakistan showdown, will take place on February 23 in Dubai. The event is already impacting prices for flights and accommodations, with demand steadily increasing and experts predicting airfare hikes of up to 50%.
Demand Soars
Dubai's travel industry is facing increased traffic weeks before the match. Travel agencies report a gradual rise in demand, expecting the biggest rush in the last two weeks – similar to previous major cricket match events. Sporting events between India and Pakistan usually spark significant interest, not only from the involved countries but also from other cricket-loving nations like the United Kingdom, Australia, and Saudi Arabia.
EaseMyTrip's co-founder stated: "Dramatic demand increases are always observed before India-Pakistan matches. During the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, searches for accommodation in Ahmedabad rose by 1,550%. We expect a similar last-minute rush in Dubai."
Airfares: 20-50% Increase Anticipated
The demand for flights between India and Pakistan is notably strong from cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad, as well as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Travel experts predict airfare hikes of 20–50%, with last-minute bookers possibly facing double prices.
According to Musafir.com's Chief Operating Officer: "Bookings are steadily increasing, with the real surge expected in the last two weeks. Those waiting until the last minute may face limited availability and significantly higher prices."
Dubai's Hotel Industry Feels the Impact
Dubai's hotel industry is also bracing for increased demand. Hotels in areas like Deira, Downtown, and Dubai Marina already report high occupancy rates, with peak demand expected closer to the match date. Cheaper accommodations are filling up quickly, while luxury hotels – such as those around Palm Jumeirah and Sheikh Zayed Road – are noting a rise in premium bookings.
They added: "During previous India-Pakistan matches, hotel rates rose by 25–50%, or even tenfold in some cases."
Interest in Airbnb and other short-term rentals is also growing, as many seek alternative accommodation options.
Travel Packages and Deals: Book in Advance
Travel agencies are offering more packages that combine flights, accommodations, and match tickets. Previous tournament packages from India to Dubai cost around 2,500 USD (9,175 dirhams), including stays at four-star hotels. Similar prices are expected for this year's match, especially for premium packages offering exclusive viewing experiences, thematic menus, and entertainment programs.
Airlines are likely to add more flights or deploy larger aircraft to handle the increased passenger traffic. However, travel agencies warn that prices may rise daily, and accommodations may fill up quickly.
They emphasized: "Waiting until the last moment means facing significantly higher prices and fewer options. As excitement builds, the coming weeks will be crucial for those looking to secure the best deals."
Summary
The India-Pakistan match always generates significant travel activity, and Dubai is no exception. The city's hotels and airlines are already feeling the match's impact. Travel experts agree that those looking for favorable deals should book their trips sooner rather than later. Delaying not only means higher costs but also limited choices – for fans, time truly means money now.
