Nice is the most popular destination for UAE private jets (PJ) users, with five trips per year, followed by Paris in second place with four trips and London in third place with two trips, said an industry expert.

Nice gets a high number of trips in the summer months as many PJ users like to escape the heat of the Gulf for Europe, added Ross Kelly, managing director for Middle East of Private Jet Charter (PJC), one of the world's largest independent private jet charter consultants.

“These high net worth individuals tend to travel before Ramadan, return home for Ramadan and then travel again after Ramadan. Other popular Mediterranean destinations are Malaga and Olbia in Sardinia,” Kelly said.

“Paris and London came second and third respectively as favourite destinations, with most PJ users going to Paris for shopping and London for business. Geneva also gets very popular in the winter for ski holidays.”

UAE PJ users prefer a private charter to commercial flights as they appreciate the luxury and the hassle free environment that comes with a private charter, he said.

“The UAE private jet market is poised for further growth as more PJ users are using private flights as a connection to fly on scheduled commercial airlines to destinations they don’t have routes for,” Kelly noted.

“As the industry grows, there will be a need for specialised private jet airports to ensure that the superior service granted to travellers on board is maintained after the flight all the way through departure or prior to flying on the jet. There is also a need for these exclusive airports for more effective servicing of private jets on landing and taking off at different times of the day.

“DWC Al Maktoum International Airport is now rated as one of the finest airports in the region where PJs can land. The advantages include less slot restrictions and no ramp congestion,” he added.

“This should come as good news to our Gulf travellers as the landing is quick, and Dubai World Central is close to Dubai Marina, The Palm and Sheikh Zayed Road and other dynamic areas that are popular among Gulf tourists when they visit Dubai. DWC Al Maktoum International Airport also offers excellent lounge facilities which are appreciated by PJ users who expect the same levels of service on ground as in air,” explained Kelly.

“We are glad to add Dubai’s second international airport to our network of airports used by our large fleet of private jets.” – TradeArabia News Service