UAE farm stay rental prices nearly double ahead of Eid Al Fitr holidays
Daily rates for farm stays around the UAE have soared in price ahead of the Eid Al Fitr holidays, skyrocketing from an average of Dh2,000 to Dh3,000 to more than Dh5,500 a night as demand for nature getaways increases.
Operators and farm managers say that farm stays and private countryside villas are all booked for the long weekend, as families opt for outdoor gatherings.
Farm stays have become, for some residents, the favorite way to celebrate Eid, which provides space for barbecues, overnight parties, children’s games and big family gatherings in a private setting.
Ahmed Saleh, an engineer who lives in Nad Al Hamar, said he started looking for a farm stay in Ras Al Khaimah about three weeks ago for an Eid gathering with relatives and friends.
“We have four families going to celebrate together. We used to be able to find decent farm stays for about Dh2,500 per night; this time the majority were either fully booked or charging over Dh5,000,” he added.
The idea, Saleh said, was to have quality time together away from the city. “We wanted an outdoor space where children can run, adults can barbecue and all these people can spend the night instead of driving home late at night.”
Mariam, who lives in Al Nahda in Sharjah said her family decided against the farm stay after checking prices.
“We looked for properties in Hatta and Fujairah, but nearly everything was fully booked. The only options were incredibly expensive. Some owners were demanding Dh6,000 to Dh6,500 for a night.”
Khan also said farm stays have gained popularity as families are opting for peaceful celebrations. “During Eid, malls are crowded. We can cook together, play games at a farm stay; sit around a bonfire and let children do outdoor activities. ”
Owners of farm stays are reporting a spike in demand. Saeed Kazim, who runs a farm in Hatta, said bookings for Eid were made weeks ahead of time.
“We are completely booked on all Eid days. The majority of our bookings are for large family groups or friends travelling together. A lot of visitors turn to barbecue areas, swimming pools and outdoor seating and spaces for overnight gatherings.”
Some customers even requested special arrangements like projector screens for movie nights, extra tents for children and late check-outs extended to hours. Quite a few wanted it all.
Muzammil, another Ras Al Khaimah operator, said demand this year has outstripped previous Eid holidays.
“Travelers are booking further in advance than ever before. Enquiries came in nearly a month before the due date. Families have less viable options than busy hotels, and they want privacy and nature.”
Pleasant March weather has gotten credit from operators for the surge, with outdoor celebrations comfortable by day and night.
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