UAE airlines prepare for surge in travel demand, shift in preferences

They are adding routes or boosting flights as travellers seek new experiences

- BY DHANUSHA GOKULAN Chief Reporter

Global travel demand is going to surge in 2026, especially in the Middle East.

Global passenger numbers projected to reach 9.8 billion in 2025, while Middle East travel demand is forecasted at 466 million passengers, according to Airports Council International (ACI). Geopolitical risks remain, but the region is seeing strong growth.

UAE airlines are preparing for this boom by launching many new routes. Etihad Airways is introducing eight new routes in the first half of 2026, while Emirates is boosting flights to London to meet rising demand.