UAE travelers booking Eid trips earlier for savings

Many travelers in the UAE are looking for affordable travel options for the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holidays. A recent report from Skyscanner shows that booking habits have changed. This year, travelers are booking their trips three days earlier than in 2024. For domestic trips, bookings have increased to 42 days in advance for shorter trips and 52 days for longer ones. Experts suggest several ways to find better travel deals. One effective method is to use travel comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak. These platforms help travelers compare prices across different airlines and can be set to alert users when prices drop. Travelers are also encouraged to consider less popular destinations. While places like the Maldives, Istanbul, and London can be expensive during Eid, options like Azerbaijan, Georgia, or Sri Lanka may offer more affordable experiences. Additionally, looking into visa-free destinations can simplify travel and cut costs. Booking flight and hotel packages can save money as well. Many travel agencies offer deals that combine flights and accommodations, often at a cheaper rate than booking separately. Websites like Expedia and Booking.com frequently feature these types of discounts. Loyalty programs and credit card rewards can also help travelers save. Frequent flyers may earn miles that provide discounts or upgrades. Many banks in the UAE offer travel credit cards with benefits like travel insurance and airport lounge access. Finally, checking for special Eid promotions at hotels and resorts is a smart move. Many offer discounts and perks during the holiday. Flexibility with travel dates can lead to savings as well. Traveling on weekdays or adjusting a few days before or after peak dates can help avoid high fares.