Businesses in the UAE gear up for surge in demand during Ramadan

Khaleej Times

21-02-2025

As the Holy Month of Ramadan approaches, businesses across various sectors are witnessing a surge in demand, reflecting the unique lifestyle shifts and consumer behaviors during this sacred time.
From mobility solutions and luxury hospitality to personalized gifting and premium transportation, companies are gearing up to meet evolving customer needs. Industry leaders share insights on how they are preparing for the season, offering enhanced services, exclusive deals, and seamless experiences to ensure convenience and comfort for residents and visitors alike.
'We are gearing up for a busy period during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Compared to previous months, we anticipate that our bookings will increase by 20 per cent during the peak Ramadan hours. As a 100 per cent electric premium limousine service in the UAE, we are committed to providing a seamless travel experience. This Ramadan, we are dedicated to making travel more convenient, comfortable, and environmentally friendly,' said Sreejith Hrishikesh, VP – Business and Country Head, UAE, BluSmart.
'We have observed a 40 per cent increase in online jewellery shopping in the weeks leading up to Ramadan. This is also fuelled by the recent demand for Valentine's day. With gifting playing a key role in Ramadan and Eid celebrations, we have seen a 50 per cent rise in orders for customized and symbolic pieces, as people look for thoughtful ways to express love and appreciation. This surge highlights the growing preference for seamless, high-quality online shopping experiences,' said Amreen Iqbal, Founder of Piece of You.
'As Ramadan approaches, we anticipate a 30-35 per cent surge in app-based bookings, driven by shifting mobility patterns, flexible work schedules, and an increase in social and family gatherings. The holy month brings a unique set of transportation needs, with individuals frequently traveling for Iftar, Suhoor, prayers, and late-night outings, all of which contribute to a rise in short-term rental activity. In the same context, we have also introduced a special Ramadan deal, that will offer customers a flat Dh200 discount on the total amount for monthly bookings on selected cars within the Selfdrive.ae fleet, if booked through the app. In addition to local demand, tourist arrivals also see a sharp increase during Ramadan and Eid. Many international travelers prefer app-based rentals for their flexibility and ease of access, leading to a significant uptick in digital reservations,' said Soham Shah, CEO and Founder of SelfDrive Mobility.
'At bnbme holiday homes, we have witnessed a 35 per cent increase in bookings through our online platforms and apps as Ramadan approaches, with more guests seeking short-term stays for family gatherings, staycations, and spiritual retreats. The demand is particularly high for luxury villas and apartments that offer privacy, comfort, and a home-like atmosphere for iftar and suhoor. With many travelers visiting the UAE to celebrate the holy month, we have also seen a rise in bookings from international guests looking for premium serviced accommodations near key cultural landmarks. This trend highlights the growing preference for personalized hospitality experiences, and we remain committed to providing exceptional stays that cater to the unique needs of our guests during this special time,' said Shilpa Mahtani, Co-Founder and Managing Director of bnbme holiday homes by Hoteliers.