Air travel between the UAE and Saudi Arabia is witnessing a notable increase, driven by heightened demand from travellers undertaking Umrah pilgrimages during the holy month.
Data from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) indicates a surge in flights between the two countries, reflecting the growing demand for religious travel.
In March, the number of flights between the UAE and Saudi Arabia surged by 13.3 per cent, reaching around 383 weekly flights, compared to approximately 338 weekly flights in February, as reported by the state news agency, WAM.
Enhanced connectivity for Umrah travellers from UAE
Major airlines have expanded their services to meet the rising demand.
Low-cost carrier flydubai boosted its flights to the kingdom by a significant 40 per cent, covering various destinations such as Abha, Jazan, and Riyadh, according to Gulf Business.
Similarly, Etihad Airways increased its flights by more than 22.2 per cent, offering additional services to Dammam, Jeddah, and Riyadh.
The airline has permanently increased its services to key destinations in Saudi Arabia, operating a total of 77 weekly flights, including 28 to Jeddah, 28 to Riyadh, and 21 to Dammam.
Emirates, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, and Air Arabia have also expanded their flight offerings, meeting the growing demand for Umrah travel during Ramadan.
During the Umrah season from March 11 to April 7, Etihad Airways transported approximately 45,000 passengers to Saudi Arabia.
Jeddah emerged as the preferred destination among travellers, with Etihad reporting a passenger occupancy rate exceeding 95 per cent, according to WAM.
Individuals from the UAE, India, Pakistan, and Indonesia constituted the largest visitor demographics.
