Holiday prices come under pressure this summer

Travel agents and tour operators say holiday prices have been placed under pressure this summer as consumers compare packages with prices found online.

Ajith Marath, sr.marketing & sales executive, Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau said holidaymakers  were continuing to book through their travel agent, despite the continuing growth of online options - but were demanding cheaper deals.

“The penetration of online booking options provides more flexibility in terms of price negotiation," said Marath. 

"Passengers are using online booking options to find out the best options as well as rates available in the market so that they can demand the best deal from their agent.

"Though cheaper rates are available online, the customer behaviour pattern in this part of the world proves that most passengers prefer to book their holidays through a tour operator or travel agent at negotiated price." 

Vinod Kumar R, general manager- Outbound, at tour operator Cox and Kings said the operator had launched packages this summer at “attractive prices that are better than last year and had added more value-adds.”

The tour operator said it had experienced an increase in business of “at least 25%” over last summer.

“The market in this part of the world has picked up,”  said Kumar. “Demand for destinations in the Far East and Europe has been growing. Increased connectivity has also led to a growing demand. We have appointed trade partners who have also been very supportive in pushing our products in the UAE.”