ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India-Pakistan Tickets Sell Out in Less Than an Hour, Airfares, Hotels See Spike

The much-awaited ticket sales for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai reached a fever pitch as tickets for the highly anticipated India-Pakistan match sold out in less than an hour. Fans from across the globe scrambled to secure their seats for the high-stakes encounter, resulting in long queues and widespread disappointment for many.

Tickets for the India-Pakistan clash, including premium categories priced at Dh2,000 and Dh5,000, were completely snapped up by 4:56 p.m. on the day they were released. Fans were left frustrated after waiting for hours in the online queue, only to be greeted by a sold-out status.

Sharjah-based Pakistani expat Zarlish Kamil expressed her disappointment, having been eagerly anticipating the match. "I’ve never missed an India-Pakistan match since childhood," Kamil shared. Despite the setback, she remains hopeful that she can secure a ticket from family or friends.

For Namita Aneesh, an Indian expat in Sharjah, the high ticket prices were a barrier. Although unable to secure a spot for the India-Pakistan match, she managed to purchase a general admission ticket for India vs New Zealand. "New Zealand is my second favourite team after India," she said, adding that while she was sad to miss the India-Pakistan game, she was thrilled to see India face off with New Zealand.

The match, scheduled for February 23, is one of three India matches to be held at the Dubai International Stadium. Other key games include India vs Bangladesh on February 20 and India vs New Zealand on March 2.

Impact on Travel and Hospitality

As fans finalize their travel plans, experts predict a sharp rise in airfares by up to 50% due to the influx of cricket enthusiasts from India, Pakistan, and other nations. The surge in demand for flights has already been observed as travelers rush to secure spots for the tournament.

Meanwhile, Dubai’s hospitality sector is also seeing increased bookings, especially from luxury travelers seeking premium match-day experiences. Hotels on Palm Jumeirah and Sheikh Zayed Road are witnessing heightened demand for exclusive offerings, including themed menus and screenings of the matches.

With India’s refusal to play in Pakistan due to security concerns, Dubai has been designated as the neutral venue for the India matches, a decision confirmed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in December 2024. Despite Pakistan being the official host, the matches in Dubai are expected to draw large crowds and significant international attention.

The Champions Trophy is set to be a major event for Dubai, and it is not just cricket fans who will feel its impact. Industry-wide shifts in air travel and hospitality are expected to continue as the tournament draws nearer.