A recent study by Skyscanner has identified the top affordable travel destinations for 2025, highlighting Bucharest (Romania), Trabzon (Türkiye), and Beijing (China) as the cheapest cities to fly to next year. The study, released on Friday, predicts a significant drop in airfares, with flights to Bucharest expected to be 35% cheaper, Trabzon 31% cheaper, and Beijing 23% cheaper.
The price reductions are largely attributed to increased flight routes and heightened competition among airlines. Bucharest, with its mix of historic charm and modern flair, has become more accessible thanks to the growing number of flight options. The city’s grand architecture and lively cultural scene are attracting more travelers.
Trabzon, located in Türkiye’s Black Sea region, offers stunning natural landscapes and a rich history, making it an appealing destination for budget-conscious travelers. The expansion of flight routes to this picturesque region has contributed to the lower prices.
Beijing, home to iconic landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, is now a more budget-friendly option for those eager to explore ancient wonders. The addition of new airline routes and increased competition among carriers has helped reduce costs for travelers heading to China.
Other cities expected to offer more affordable flights in 2025 include:
- Tokyo (Japan)
- Baku (Azerbaijan)
- Seoul (South Korea)
- Seattle (U.S.)
- Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)
- Istanbul (Türkiye)
- Cape Town (South Africa)
According to Ayoub El Mamoun, a GCC travel expert at Skyscanner, two main factors are driving these price drops. “New routes are being added in these countries, increasing supply to meet demand. For instance, Saudi Arabia introduced six new routes in the last four years,” he explained. Additionally, fierce competition among airlines and travel agents has led to the creation of more affordable and attractive travel packages.
The study also notes that airlines in the UAE and abroad have aggressively expanded their route networks in the post-pandemic recovery period. However, some airlines are facing delays in deliveries from U.S. aircraft manufacturer Boeing, which could impact the pace of new route introductions.
Despite economic challenges, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2025 report shows that UAE residents continue to prioritize travel. The study found that 55% of UAE travelers plan to spend more on flights in 2025, while 44% will allocate more for accommodation and 28% for car rentals. The costs of hotels, flights, and visas remain the top factors for UAE residents when choosing vacation destinations.
In terms of additional comforts, most UAE travelers are willing to spend more on quality in-flight meals, access to airport lounges, and seat selection.
