Flight ticket prices in the UAE have dropped significantly—by 35% over the past 12 years—driven by the rise of budget airlines and growing demand for cost-effective travel options, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The IATA report, released during the World Cargo Symposium in Dubai, revealed that flight costs globally have declined by 70% over the last 50 years, making air travel more accessible than ever. In the UAE alone, average real airfares dropped by 35% between 2011 and 2023.
Strong competition between domestic and international carriers has played a major role in lowering airfare in the UAE. New entrants like Air Arabia Abu Dhabi and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi have expanded the market, while established airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia continue to offer a wide range of global destinations.
The increase in airline options has enhanced affordability, especially for travelers opting for low-cost carriers.
Affordable Flights for UAE Residents
According to IATA, UAE residents only need to work 1.9 days on average to afford a flight ticket, based on average fares and the nation’s GDP per capita. With an estimated per capita income of AED 180,000 in 2023, residents earning an average of AED 15,000 monthly can save AED 1,000 in two days—enough for many budget travel options.
In comparison, residents of GCC countries, the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia typically work fewer than five days to afford air travel. Meanwhile, individuals in South Asia, Africa, and Commonwealth countries may need over 15 working days to buy a ticket due to lower income levels and higher relative travel costs.
Aviation Powers UAE’s Economy
The UAE’s aviation sector continues to grow, fueled by rising global travel demand. Dubai remains the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic. In 2023, the UAE recorded 3,668 flights per 1,000 people.
The sector directly employs 206,800 people and contributes $26.6 billion to the economy, which equals 5.3% of the nation’s GDP. When including tourism, supply chain activity, and employee spending, aviation supports 991,500 jobs and adds $92 billion to the GDP.
Tourism alone, powered by air connectivity, contributes $22 billion and supports 297,300 jobs. International tourists are expected to inject $47.7 billion annually into the economy through local spending.
All 34.8 million passenger departures from the UAE in 2023 were for international destinations. The Asia Pacific region accounted for the highest share with 14.1 million passengers (40% of the total), followed by Europe with 8.5 million (24%) and the Middle East with 7.9 million (23%).
The high volume of travel to Asia Pacific reflects the large expatriate population from the region living and working in the UAE.
