Flight bookings from Muscat to Dubai fall as New Year is a working day

Muscat: Airlines’ bookings to Dubai to celebrate New Year are low due to the first day of 2017 falling on a working day, according to airline officials and travel agents in Muscat.
“Mainly, as it’s a working day, people have not shown interest in flying to Dubai and celebrating. Compared to last year, the bookings are low. It seems everyone will celebrate the New Year here in Oman,” said an official from a Dubai-based airline in Muscat.
Dubai has long been known as a top global destination for New Year eve celebrations.
In 2014, Dubai broke the world-record for the largest and longest fireworks display, and plans are underway to make this year’s celebration even more exciting.
According to the Dubai government, more than one million people are expected to attend the New Year celebration in Downtown Dubai and Dubai Water Canal on Saturday.
Of note, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has developed a comprehensive traffic and transport plan to help ease public movement.
This year, the fireworks have been planned on a grander scale, with pyrotechnics designed to be launched along the Dubai Water Canal to Dubai Creek Harbour, where The Tower is under construction. However, Burj Khalifa will remain the centre of the attractions.
Meanwhile, a travel agent in Muscat said that many people are opting for local Oman tourist spots to celebrate New Year.
“People don’t have much money, as in the past. And, as it’s a working day, fewer people want to go to Dubai and lose wages,” the travel agent said.
“However, we are getting enquiries about Salalah, Jebel Akdhar and desert camps,” he added.
Rejin Thomas, director of sales at Crowne Plaza in Salalah, said that December 30 and 31 are packed with local and foreign guests.
“This year, we are fully booked. There is a big German group, too. We will be having a seaside gala dinner,” Rejin added.
Nithin Raveendran Nair, a senior official with Axiz Events, said there are at least 40 special New Year events occurring in Muscat.
“It seems people love to be in Oman for New Year,” said Nithin, who is organising a live concert with UK-based DJs at the Sheraton on December 31.