The cost of flights for GCC travellers has increased by almost 11 per cent in the past year, according to research from online travel marketplace Wego.
Wego said airfares for top destinations are all pricier this year by an average of 10.81 per cent compared to the same period last year.
Flight price to Kuwait is the sole outlier, being 7.33 per cent cheaper than last winter.
GCC travel trends
Despite the rising costs, many GCC travellers are eyeing winter breaks during cooler months, Wego said.
With the end-of-year travel season fast approaching, residents and expats in the GCC are making plans for vacations or trips back home.
According to Wego’s search data Cairo is the most popular city for GCC travellers, followed by:
- Jeddah
- Istanbul
- Cochin
- Bangkok
- Lahore
- London
- Dubai
- Kuwait
Wego’s data suggests that much of the interest in the top destinations stems from the substantial Egyptian and Indian expat populations in the GCC.
Egypt and India expats are both expected to take advantage of the year-end break to visit their home countries.
Wego’s research highlights a growing interest among GCC citizens in Europe as a prime destination for festive year-end getaways. While London remains a perennial favourite, thanks to the ease of entry for GCC citizens who can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), other European cities are gaining popularity for their unique experiences and convenient accessibility.
Moscow, Russia with its winter landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is an appealing choice for travellers. Meanwhile, cities like Baku, Azerbaijan and Tbilisi, Georgia have emerged as attractive options, offering a blend of modern amenities and rich history, all within a short distance from the GCC. Direct flights to these destinations typically take under four hours, making them ideal for a quick, hassle-free escape.
Additionally, European cities like Milan, Italy and Paris, France continue to attract visitors looking to sample world-class shopping, fine dining, and festive celebrations during holidays.
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