Tickets for the much-anticipated India-Pakistan showdown in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 are being resold at exorbitant prices, nearly seven times their original cost. Initially priced at Dh500, general admission tickets are now being listed on Facebook Marketplace and other resale platforms for as much as Dh3,500.
High Demand Causes Frustration Among Fans
Cricket fans scrambled to purchase tickets when sales opened on Monday, spending hours in virtual queues. However, despite their efforts, the tickets sold out within an hour, leaving many disappointed. Now, those same tickets are being resold at inflated prices, leaving fans frustrated.
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Abdul Kareem, a Sharjah resident and passionate cricket fan, was among those who tried and failed to secure a ticket through the official website. “I kept refreshing the page for hours, hoping to get one, but by the time my turn arrived, everything was gone. Now, resellers are asking for Dh3,500 or more. It’s beyond frustrating,” he said. Kareem even tried negotiating a slight price increase but was met with resistance. “When I offered to pay Dh200 more than the original cost, the reseller got upset and asked if I even understood the value of this match.”
Price Hikes Exclude Many Fans
Similarly, Harish Das, another cricket enthusiast, voiced his discontent with the inflated resale prices. “I had budgeted Dh500 for a ticket, but I can’t afford to pay more than Dh1,000. It feels like these matches are only accessible to those who can pay outrageous prices,” he said. He also pointed out that ticket prices in Dubai are much higher than those in India.
“My last option is to watch the match on TV,” Das added, expressing his frustration.
Resellers See Huge Demand
India-Pakistan matches are among the most sought-after events in cricket, and the overwhelming demand for tickets has led to inflated resale prices. Resellers have reported receiving a flood of inquiries. “We’ve had over 50 calls just since yesterday asking for tickets. People are trying to negotiate, but even at three times the price, they’re still interested,” one reseller said.
As the match date of February 23 approaches, ticket prices may rise even further. Another reseller, who has tickets for all four UAE matches, is selling them as a package for Dh6,000. Demand for tickets extends beyond just the India-Pakistan clash, with fans also seeking tickets for games against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and the semifinals.
“Many fans want to attend multiple matches, not just India-Pakistan. Bulk ticket prices are actually lower compared to single-match resale rates, yet people are still bargaining,” said the reseller.
Skyrocketing Resale Prices Dampen Excitement
With the match set to take place at Dubai International Stadium, the skyrocketing resale prices have dampened the excitement for many fans who missed out on the official ticket sale, leaving them with limited options to attend the match.
