(qlmbusinessnews.com . Wed 18th Mar, 2026) London, UK —
2023 Easter Travel Trends: UK Tourists Opt for Spain, US, and Caribbean Over Middle East Due to Iran Conflict
British holiday-goers are altering their Easter vacation plans, opting out of Dubai due to the escalating conflict in neighbouring Iran, which has significantly affected travel options in the Middle East. Travel agencies report a growing preference for destinations considered safe and welcoming, amid widespread flight disruptions within the region and advisories against travel to several areas including the United Arab Emirates.
The consequence of the unfolding situation has been a noticeable decline in bookings for Dubai and other destinations proximate to Iran, such as Turkey, Cyprus, and Egypt. Conversely, there has been a surge in interest for holidays in Portugal, Italy, Spain, the Caribbean, Mauritius, and the US, with some airlines observing flights filling up more swiftly compared to the previous year.
British Airways has responded to the volatile situation by halting certain flights to the Middle East up until the end of May, citing “the continuing uncertainty of the situation in the Middle East and airspace instability” as primary concerns.
The travel industry is bracing for heightened demand for flights and holidays, as those with disrupted travel plans seek alternatives, and others yet to book hasten to secure their spots in safe-haven destinations. Neil Swanson, the managing director of TUI UK and Ireland, noted a marked preference among British tourists for “reassuring alternatives” that avoid Middle Eastern transit routes. Destinations like Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Cape Verde are in high demand, alongside long-haul favourites such as the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Phuket in Thailand, and Goa in India.
The situation has left many, like 43-year-old Natalie Kimber from Portsmouth, in a state of uncertainty. Kimber, who has summer plans for Dubai, is now looking to change her destination but faces potential losses if she cancels, as her flights are still scheduled to operate.
Despite the shift in travel preferences, certain holiday spots remain popular. Thomas Cook reports a 42% increase in bookings to Portugal, leading the pack, followed by significant rises in interest for the Balearic and Canary Islands. Kuoni has also observed a notable uptick in bookings for the Caribbean, Africa, and Europe, with Italy enjoying a 55% increase.
The shift in destination preference is not uniform, as On The Beach highlights a slump in demand for holidays to Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, reflecting concerns over the conflict in the Middle East. This sentiment is reflected by Jet2's observations of reduced bookings and increased cancellations for Cyprus and Turkey.
Though not all European destinations are affected equally, with no direct warnings against travel to places like Greece, the UK government has issued advisories due to the potential for terrorist attacks in Cyprus and general travel disruptions caused by the regional conflict.
Prices for air travel may see an upward trend as airlines grapple with a significant surge in jet fuel costs, a repercussion of the conflict affecting global oil prices. Despite this, the desire for holiday experiences remains strong, with industry experts like Dame Irene Hays of Hays Travel optimistic about the sector's resilience and eventual recovery.
Looking ahead, the aviation industry anticipates 2026 to be a record-breaking year for flights, despite the current uncertainties and the challenges faced in recent years, including the pandemic. As airlines adjust to fluctuating fuel prices and destinations gear up for increased visitor numbers, the preference for “safe haven” holidays is expected to shape travel trends in the immediate future.
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