Latest news with #PlutoTravels
Khaleej Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE flights: Ticket prices up by 60% on peak travel day amid Eid Al Adha break
As UAE residents gear up for the upcoming Eid Al Adha break, travel demand to Arab and regional destinations is soaring, as are ticket prices. According to Bharat Aidasani, Managing Partner at Pluto Travels, airfares to Arab destinations have surged by up to 60 per cent during the Eid Al Adha holiday period as demand continues to outpace supply. "Because of the peak season, people love to travel, especially in the summer and during holiday times like Eid," Aidasani said, highlighting a consistent rise in travel demand. According to Aidasani, prices for flights to these destinations have risen between 20 to 30 per cent, with peak-day travel costs increasing by as much as 40 to 60 per cent. 'Airlines also get geared up for Eid. They start additional flights and open new routes wherever demand rises.' Arab destinations remain in high demand. Egypt continues to attract many UAE residents, while Syria is witnessing a surge as Syrians living in the UAE return home to celebrate Eid. Lebanon remains a consistent favorite, and Saudi Arabia sees increased traffic due to Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. Praveen Choudhary from Al Saffron Travel and Tourism agrees and adds that Egypt and Morocco are among the Arab destinations with the highest surge in bookings this Eid. "We're seeing a major influx in Egypt visa applications during the holiday period," said Choudhary, noting a significant increase in demand from UAE residents and expats alike. Choudhary emphasised the importance of early booking to avoid steep price hikes. "If you book 40 to 45 days in advance, the price could be nearly half what it is now. For example, a ticket priced at Dh500 earlier might now be over Dh1,000." Zain Al Abdin, sales manager at Golden Eagle Travel & Tourism, added that airlines have ramped up operations to accommodate the surge. For example, 'Syrian Airlines used to be the only carrier flying to Syria, but now FlyDubai and Emirates are adding flights. Yet prices have increased by around 50 per cent,' Al Abdin said. Travellers who book last-minute tickets often face higher fares, especially for non-flexible or non-refundable ticket categories. 'About 90 per cent of the tickets people book are non-refundable,' he explained. With limited flexibility, travellers are often locked into dates set by public sector holidays. Different travel behaviours Compared to last Eid, bookings this year are strong but slightly lower. 'This is mainly due to the overlap of Eid holidays with school exams. Many families are delaying their travel until after Eid,' Al Abdin explained. Some families prefer spending the same budget on more extended post-Eid vacations rather than shorter, more expensive Eid getaways. 'A three-day Eid trip might cost Dh4,000 per person now. Some prefer to wait until after exams and spend Dh7,000 on a full summer trip instead,' he said. Travel after Eid is expected to be more affordable and appealing for long-haul trips. 'After Eid, prices will drop, especially for longer destinations like Europe, Russia, and northern Turkey,' he added. Looking at global destinations, Al Abdin pointed out that travelers prefer short-haul trips during Eid, such as Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Istanbul. "For long-haul destinations like Europe, Russia, North Turkey, Japan, Korea, or Norway, people wait for the summer holiday season."
Khaleej Times
24-04-2025
- Khaleej Times
'Heaven on Earth': Why UAE residents travelling to Kashmir was on the rise in recent years
Kashmir is often described as 'heaven on earth'. But for those who have actually visited the breathtaking valley, it's not just a phrase, it becomes a deeply felt truth and a statement that lives with them. The snow-covered mountains, serene lakes, pine forests, and warm hospitality leave visitors with memories that stay long after the journey ends. And for a growing number of UAE residents, Kashmir, both in India and in Pakistan-administered regions, is becoming a top destination for vacations, honeymoons, and even soul-searching getaways. Honeymooners' paradise Meeran D.F., a 31-year-old marketing professional based in Dubai, chose Kashmir for his honeymoon after hearing about its beauty from friends and family for years. Married in the first week of January, he flew to Srinagar just days later with his bride, and what they saw was nothing short of magical. 'I had always heard Kashmir is paradise on earth, but seeing it with my own eyes, with my wife beside me, felt surreal,' said Meeran. 'The valley was blanketed in soft, white snow. Gulmarg especially took our breath away with its pine trees frosted with snow, frozen lakes, and the sound of silence. We rode the gondola up the mountains and played in the snow like kids. It was cold, but the warmth of the people and a cup of Kashmiri kahwa kept us cozy throughout. It wasn't just a trip, it was an experience we will cherish for the rest of our lives.' Surge in demand among UAE residents Bharath Aidasani, managing partner at Pluto Travels, said the interest in Indian-administered Kashmir has been steadily growing over the years among UAE residents all year round and especially during the summer months. 'We have had groups travelling to Kashmir every single month this year. From January to May, we sent multiple groups,' he said. 'Between June and August, it becomes one of the most preferred destinations, not just for Indians, but also for expats from other nationalities. We have even had inquiries from Europeans looking to spend their summer there.' However, he added that due to the recent incident, some travellers have cancelled their trips. 'Still, those who have visited always tell us it was the best place they have ever been to. They truly believe it's heaven on earth.' Pakistan-administered Kashmir: A hidden gem Kashmir's charm isn't limited to the Indian side. When Pakistan International Airlines resumed direct flights from the UAE to Skardu in April 2024, a town surrounded by the towering Karakoram mountains, it opened up a new travel destination for travellers based in the Gulf. Usman Abbas, a 45-year-old Pakistani expat living in Sharjah, jumped at the opportunity. 'I have travelled across Europe, the Swiss Alps, Austria, and even Norway, but nothing compares to Kashmir,' he said. 'Flying into Skardu felt like entering another world. I visited Shigar Valley and Satpara Lake, both absolutely stunning. The hospitality, the landscapes, the silence of the mountains, it all stays with you.' Landscapes waiting to be explored According to travel experts, many families originally from Pakistan-administered Kashmir, especially those settled in the UK, often fly via Dubai to visit their hometowns. With flight connectivity and growing tourism interest, there are talks of building an international airport in Mirpur to further boost access and development. 'Due to better connectivity and awareness, interest in visiting the Pakistan side of Kashmir is rising,' said Dr Zafar Tahir, a Dubai-based travel expert. 'The region remains largely undiscovered, but once people visit, they will understand why Kashmir is truly unlike any other place. I have seen Europe and many other places on Earth but nothing compares to this.' Switzerland of the subcontinent It is the natural beauty, the snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, alpine forests, and crystal-clear lakes. But beyond that, it's the feeling Kashmir instills in its travellers. Whether on the Indian side or the Pakistani side, the region captures hearts with its purity, peace, and the warmth of its people. For UAE residents, it's no longer just a distant dream. 'It's a destination that's easier to reach, yet impossible to forget,' said Meeran.
Gulf News
23-04-2025
- Gulf News
Scores of UAE residents cancel holidays to Kashmir after Pahalgam terror attacks
Dubai: Scores of UAE residents are reportedly cancelling their planned holidays to Kashmir following the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam, travel agents and affected individuals have said. The attacks, which occurred on Tuesday, have instilled fear and uncertainty among travellers who had booked or were planning trips to the popular destination. Dubai resident Amal Gireesh said he had planned a trip with his wife Anakha to Kashmir in May and decided to cancel it immediately after the terror attack. 'It had been our wish to visit Kashmir, and we planned to go there in May. We had even decided on May 11 as we had to schedule the other plans during our trip to India,' Gireesh explained. The couple's excitement to visit Pahalgam was heightened after seeing photos from Amal's cousin, who had been at the same location just two days before the attack. 'My cousin and her husband were at the same spot just two days before the terror attack. We had seen their photos, in which they wore ethnic Kashmiri outfits, and we planned to do the same when we visited Pahalgam.' However, the situation has shifted from excitement to relief for their narrow escape and apprehension about future travel. 'Now, we are all so grateful that they were lucky to have left, and we are scared to go there now. It is so sad that the beautiful Kashmir is hit by terror attacks again after a long period of peace,' he added. Attacks are terrible for state tourism Meanwhile, travel agents have said the heinous attacks would significantly affect the state's tourism sector, which has been experiencing a boom since 2021. It's important to note that there are no direct flights between Srinagar and the UAE, which adds another layer of complexity for travellers. The cancellations are expected to significantly impact the tourism sector in Kashmir, which has seen a revival in recent years. Afi Ahmed, Chairman of Smart Travels, said Kashmir had become an increasingly popular holiday spot post-pandemic. "It will impact the business badly," Ahmed said, highlighting that many UAE-based Indian expats, having visited home, often opted for a side trip to Kashmir, sometimes sending luggage ahead via air cargo. Ahmed also mentioned that the winter season, from December to February, is a peak. Still, Kashmir is considered a year-round tourist hotspot. "Fortunately, we don't have a group in Kashmir right now," Ahmed added, stating that they typically handle groups ranging from 200 to 300 passengers annually, including bachelors, families, and adventure travellers. Kashmir's popularity surged recently, especially after high traffic coinciding with school vacations and holidays like the Eid Al Adha break in June, a busy time for travellers from Kerala. "In a state of panic, people will cancel their trips," Ahmed said. Sapna Aidasani, Head of Marketing and Public Relations at Pluto Travels, said, 'We had a family who travelled and returned from Kashmir just before the attacks. We have proactively cancelled every other tour," she said. Sapna said Kashmir had become an increasingly popular destination, driven by social media buzz around new hotels like The Khyber and The Lalit. 'Kashmir had become a popular destination – like Switzerland, but not as expensive. This incident was a huge hit for the travel and tourism industry." She expressed hope that assurances would be given to maintain safety. 'Distrust will set in' On average, Pluto Travels sends over 100 people to Kashmir during favourable weather conditions, with groups ranging from 100 to 120 individuals, often families. Rashid Abbas, Managing Director of Arooha Travels, also reported cancellations. He said, 'If you look at the list of tourists who were unfortunately killed yesterday, there are nationalities from all over the world. Kashmir was very popular.' He added, 'A lot of people are confused about their travel plans – even though they would like to go, their families are uncomfortable with them going…' Annually, Arooha Travels typically organizes trips for around 500 travellers to Kashmir, with smaller groups of about 30 people monthly. Raheesh Babu, COO of Musafir, shared similar concerns. 'Business to Kashmir has been robust since 2021… this episode could set things back significantly for the travel/ tourism sector. Whatever happened is extremely tragic. Most of our demand is around the Eid holidays and usual holiday season – many people have just returned from the Eid holidays.' Airlines special offers To support those travelling to/from Srinagar, Indian carrier IndiGo offers waivers for cancellation fees or rescheduling charges. Given the emergent situation, the airline said it has also taken steps to keep the fares moderated. The airline has added special flights to Srinagar from Delhi and Mumbai with immediate effect and will be operating these over and above the regular schedule of 160 weekly flights from/to Srinagar from various parts of India, the airline said in a statement.
Hi Dubai
24-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Authorities Intensify Crackdown on Visit Visa Violations, Travel Agents Warn Against Working on Visit Visas
Dubai authorities have intensified their efforts to curb illegal employment practices following the conclusion of a generous visa amnesty scheme. Travel industry professionals report a surge in inspections targeting individuals working on visit visas, resulting in a sharp decline in overstayers. According to Safeer Mohammed, General Manager of Smart Travels, numerous company premises have been inspected in recent months. "Inspection teams have visited our office tower multiple times. While working on a visit visa has always been illegal, enforcement has now become much stricter," he stated. The visa amnesty, which ran from September to December 2024, allowed individuals who had overstayed their visit visas to legalize their status or leave the country without penalties. Following its conclusion, authorities conducted extensive inspection campaigns in January, leading to over 6,000 arrests for visa violations, a top official revealed. Industry experts note a significant impact on overstaying figures. "Since January, the number of visit visa overstayers has dropped to below 10%, which is a substantial improvement," Mohammed added. Bharat Aidasani of Pluto Travels emphasized the legal repercussions, stating, "We strictly advise our customers against working on visit visas. The consequences are severe, including deportation." The UAE bolstered its labour laws in August 2023, introducing stringent penalties ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million for companies employing individuals without valid work permits or bringing workers into the country without securing jobs for them. Noushad Hassan of Alhind Travels Business Centre confirmed increased inspections across various companies since the amnesty ended. "Authorities are ensuring compliance, and we've observed a steady decline in overstayers," he said. Hassan also noted that, previously, some individuals found themselves stranded after overstaying their visas. "Many contacted us for assistance in returning home. Now, visit visa renewals require individuals to exit the country first, making it harder for unscrupulous firms to exploit workers." The ongoing crackdown underscores Dubai's commitment to maintaining a lawful labour environment, ensuring compliance with visa regulations, and protecting workers from potential exploitation. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
24-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Don't work on visit visas, travel agents warn as crackdown intensifies
Dubai authorities have ramped up efforts to crack down on individuals working on visit visas in the emirate, travel agents claimed. According to them, this has led to a noticeable reduction in the number of people overstaying in the country. 'We've heard of multiple company premises being inspected recently,' claimed Safeer Mohammed, general manager of Smart Travels. 'Inspection teams have also visited our office tower several times over the past few months. While working on a visit visa has always been illegal, the authorities are now ensuring that everyone is strictly following the rules.' This follows the end of a generous amnesty scheme, one of the country's most lenient, which allowed those overstaying their visit visas to either legalise their status or leave without facing penalties. The programme, which ran from September to December 2024, helped thousands resolve their visa issues. Following the end of the visa amnesty, more than 6,000 violators were arrested during inspection campaigns in January, a top official revealed. Safeer highlighted that these measures have played a key role in reducing the number of visit visa overstayers by more than half. 'Since January, we've seen the number of people overstaying their visit visas reduced to less than 10 per cent,' he said. Bharat Aidasani of Pluto Travels emphasised that it has always been illegal to work on a visit visa in the UAE. 'We strictly advise our customers not to do so,' he said. 'Since the end of the amnesty, inspections have become more frequent, and the penalties are severe, with deportation being the consequence for anyone caught working on a visit visa.' In August of last year, the UAE amended its labour law to impose hefty fines ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million on companies that employ workers without the proper permits or bring them into the country without securing jobs for them. Noushad Hassan from Alhind Travels Business Centre also shared that several companies have been inspected since the amnesty ended. 'We've heard of several companies being checked to ensure no one on a visit visa is working there,' he said. 'It is a great way to ensure that rules are being followed. We have also seen a steady decrease in the number of people overstaying their visit visa so it is really having a positive impact," Noushad added. He also noted that some workers had previously found themselves stranded after overstaying their visas. 'They would contact us asking for assistance to return home,' he said. 'Now, companies in Dubai cannot renew visit visas without the workers physically returning home. With the increased inspections, it will be much harder for unscrupulous companies to take advantage of workers.'
