Dubai: More travellers from the Gulf are expected to head to Europe over the next three to six months as the dollar strengthens against the euro, according to industry experts.
The dollar has strengthened by around 17 per cent against the euro over the last year. All the Gulf currencies, except the Kuwaiti dinar, are pegged to the dollar. A rise in the dollar means stronger Gulf currencies, increasing its purchasing power.
“[With the strengthening dollar] Travellers can get more value for their money and spend more,” said Manu Mehrotra, general manager at Al Tayer Travel Agency.
Holidaymakers are also expected to increase their length of stay in Europe.
“UAE visitors stay on average 14 nights in Europe. This year, they are likely to stay between 16 and 18 nights,” said Kulwant Singh, managing director of Lama Tours.
Industry experts do not think the rise in Gulf travellers visiting Europe will mean their numbers in the UAE will be impacted.
Singh said that if tour operators “add more value to their holiday packages”, there would not be a drop in visitors.
An increase in the value of the dollar will make the UAE more expensive compared to European countries as the euro continues to weaken against the dollar.
