UAE-India Travel Prices Set to Soar
Travel Between UAE and India: "Prices Will Keep Rising" Unless Flights Increase, Says Senior Official
Amid the rapid growth of the travel market between the UAE and India, it has become clear that current flight capacity is insufficient to meet demand. Abdulnasser Alshaali, the UAE's ambassador to India, recently highlighted that increasing the number of flights is crucial for reducing high airfare costs and further strengthening relations between the two countries.
Rising Demand and Limited Capacity
In recent years, demand for travel between the UAE and India has significantly increased, thanks to the deepening economic and cultural ties between the two nations. The Indian diaspora in the UAE, which forms the country's largest expat community, continues to play a significant role in the rise of travel numbers. However, the limited number of flights, especially from smaller, so-called Tier 2 Indian cities, presents a serious obstacle.
"The current flight capacity does not meet travelers' needs, and high prices impose significant burdens on families and business travelers," Abdulnasser Alshaali stated at the inaugural UAE-India Founders’ Retreat held at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
Increasing Flights: A Solution to the Problems?
According to Alshaali, increasing the number of flights between the two countries and establishing direct connections with smaller Indian cities would be advantageous for both parties in the long run. The ambassador emphasized that better transportation infrastructure could not only reduce travel costs but also strengthen commercial and tourism relationships.
The increase in direct flights could be particularly beneficial in the smaller segments of the Indian market, where travel options are currently limited. This would facilitate easier travel for Indian tourists and businesspeople to reach the UAE and create opportunities for Emirati tourists to explore lesser-known regions of India.
Commercial and Tourism Advantages
The ambassador also pointed out that improving transportation links between the UAE and India could play a key role in stimulating economic growth. The UAE is already one of India's largest trading partners, and expanding direct flights could further enhance this relationship.
From a tourism perspective, India is considered one of the UAE’s most important markets. Better connections would not only attract more tourists but also make travel more convenient and accessible for existing visitors.
High Prices and Consequences of Maintaining the Status Quo
Due to the limited number of flights, ticket prices may remain high, especially during peak seasons. Alshaali warned, "Unless the number of flights is increased, prices are expected to continue rising." This poses a significant challenge for families who regularly travel between the two countries.
What’s the Next Step?
Alshaali encouraged decision-makers to explore possibilities for increasing the number of flights, particularly from Tier 2 Indian cities, which are currently underrepresented in international aviation. According to the ambassador, expanding bilateral negotiations and aviation agreements could be the solution to addressing existing problems.
Developing travel links between the UAE and India would not only enhance traveler convenience in the long term but also strengthen the economic and cultural ties between both countries. How quickly efforts to increase the number of flights are realized could significantly impact the region's future.
