300% Increase In UAE Private Jet Demand, Charter Provider Says

Travelers stranded in the UAE by the war over the Middle East are finding alternative – and some very expensive – ways to leave the region. 

With much of the Gulf’s airspace restricted, many travelers are turning to private jets, charter flights, or even long road trips to neighboring countries to catch outbound flights.

On March 5 alone, 55% of scheduled flights departing Dubai and 82.8% of flights from Abu Dhabi had been cancelled, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Private Jet Demand Surges

Demand for private jet charters has surged as wealthy travelers, corporate executives and diplomats seek to quickly leave the region.

Ahmed Elhawary, chairman of Dubai-based commercial charter provider Mayfair Jets, told Skift that  requests for private jets have jumped between 200% and 300% since the outbreak of conflict last Saturday.

“We’ve seen some individuals, mainly tourists, who have asked for private jets,