Definately Holding,
1/ Less chance of Human Error in having A/C circle in a prescribed area than with numerous RT calls and changes of vectors over the UAE airspace,
2/ More fuel efficient if the standard STAR was flown from the hold to landing allowing the A/C to follow a standard profile CDA to touchdown,
3/ Less RT if the standard arrival could be flown, obviously with SPD and ALT constrains.
4/Loging of actual holding delays would help in planning prior to Departure to DXB,
5/ Plane common sense.
