Hotels in UAE raise prices following heavy rains leaving tourists and residents stranded

Dubai residents and tourists are facing a challenging situation after record-level rainfall on Tuesday led to flooding in some areas of the city. As a result, some hotels have hiked their prices, leaving residents who have been displaced by the floods in a difficult position.

Mona Ireland, a former UAE resident on holiday in Dubai, expressed her frustration at the sudden increase in hotel prices. “It’s a scary situation to be in, to be honest. I love Dubai and come here all the time. But I think it’s unethical for businesses to attempt to profit from people’s hardship,” she said.

With hotels fully booked and prices soaring, some tourists like Alex Jackson from the UK are left with no choice but to sleep in hotel lobbies until they can secure a flight out of the city. The situation has also led to inflated taxi prices, with some trips costing over Dh700 within the city.

Despite the challenges, Dubai’s community has come together to support those in need. Groups like Jeep Nation have been driving around the city to help pull cars out of flooded areas and assist stranded residents. Local businesses and individuals are also offering assistance, with F&B establishments providing aid in affected communities and garages offering free auto repairs for flooded cars.

In times of crisis, the unity and support shown by Dubai’s residents highlight the resilience and compassion of the city’s community.