Data Shows 8.9% Surge in Mauritians Traveling Abroad

Mauritian residents are jetting off in record numbers, with departures soaring by 8.9% in the first half of 2025, according to new data from Statistics Mauritius. This significant increase highlights a growing local appetite for travel, with over 170,000 residents leaving the country during the period, compared to 156,617 in the first half of 2024. The overall number of passengers departing from Plaisance Airport also rose, reaching 977,378, a 3.7% increase from the same period in 2024.

Key Destinations and Industry Insights

The United Arab Emirates has emerged as the top destination, attracting nearly a quarter of all travellers either as a final stop or a transit hub. India, Reunion, France, South Africa, and the United Kingdom followed closely behind.

Umarfarooq Omarjee, Executive Director of Omarjee, attributes this surge to several factors, including a post-COVID-19 realisation of the importance of travel, the reunion of families with relatives living abroad, and a return to in-person business meetings.

He noted that Emirates airline’s extensive network from Dubai, with two daily flights and a planned third, contributes significantly to its appeal.

The Cost of Wanderlust

Despite the renewed enthusiasm, the price of travel remains a significant hurdle. Ticket prices have risen sharply compared to pre-pandemic levels, a challenge exacerbated by high global demand, reduced aircraft availability, and a worldwide shortage of aircraft parts.

Tima Ramrooch, Director of Comfort Travel and Tours, confirms the heightened demand for all destinations, but noted that Rodrigues remains a popular and affordable option, with a full package costing between Rs 14,000 and Rs 15,000. She adds that bookings for late November and December are already full.

Diverse Traveller Profiles

The surge in travel is driven by a wide range of people, each with their own preferences. Families tend to travel during school holidays, while more flexible seniors seek off-peak bargains.

Honeymooners favour destinations like the Seychelles, while younger travellers gravitate toward vibrant locales such as Thailand or Dubai.

Others seek the tranquillity of India, Cape Town, or Europe. Omarjee highlighted the psychological benefits of travel, describing it as an escape and a way to recharge.

However, he cautioned that the travel industry remains volatile, with peaks in demand during December and troughs in months like September, when people are busy with the new school term and examinations.

Source: l’Express