As the UAE celebrates the Prophet’s (PBUH) birthday on Friday, September 5, residents are gearing up for a final holiday before winter sets in. With Saturday and Sunday already being part of the weekend, this three-day break offers the ideal opportunity for a quick getaway.
Travel agencies report a surge in demand, particularly from singles and newlyweds who stayed back during the summer while families traveled abroad. In the UAE, companies often encourage single employees to work during peak vacation times, and this unexpected long weekend provides them a chance to relax.
“This long weekend is a blessing for many bachelors and couples who didn’t travel in July or August,” noted Pavan Poojary, a travel consultant at Luxury Travels. “They are keen to travel, even for a short time, to escape the heat and enjoy destinations just a few hours away.”
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He also mentioned that eager travelers saved money during peak summer by avoiding malls and dining out. “With these savings, their priority is to spend quality time with loved ones,” said Poojary.
Popular destinations include Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, and Armenia, while child-free couples are opting for the Maldives and Sri Lanka for their beaches and pleasant weather. “These countries are favored not only for their climate but also because of short flight times and no jet lag. People want to maximize their holidays without wasting time in transit,” Poojary added.
Travel experts note that while families vacationed during school breaks, the current demand is from younger individuals. Libin Varghese, sales director at Rooh Travels, said they are seeing an increase in bookings from newlyweds and young couples for the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Bachelors are choosing Baku, Tbilisi, and Almaty.
Airfare sees slight uptick
According to a Khaleej Times analysis, airfares to popular destinations have increased slightly for the long weekend compared to the following week. Skyscanner data reveals:
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A direct flight from Dubai to Baku on September 4 costs Dh548, compared to Dh450 on September 11.
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Flights to Tbilisi, Georgia are Dh615 on September 4, versus Dh520 the next Thursday.
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To Kazakhstan, fares stand at Dh736 on September 4, dropping to Dh614 on September 11.
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A ticket to the Maldives is Dh605 on September 4, compared to Dh498 the following week.
Travel consultants say these fare hikes are typical around public holidays when demand spikes.
With September marking a shift from peak summer heat to cooler months, this long weekend is seen as the last chance for a summer escape.
“This isn’t just a holiday. For many, it signifies the end of their summer,” said Poojary.
