As holiday companies endeavour to repatriate their customers caught up in the Middle East conflict, they are also cancelling March departures to Dubai, Qatar, Egypt (including Nile cruises) and Jordan, with summer flights dependent on the future situation in the Middle East.

Concerning cruise companies such as MSC Cruises, Celestyal and TUI, they are also working with local authorities in the conflict zones to repatriate their existing passengers stranded by the war. Although itinerary cancellations have not yet been announced regarding future cruises to the region, the situation will be dependent on the duration and outcome of the war.

Previous political unrest in the Middle East in 2024 led to cruises to the region being cancelled, with cruise companies switching to increased sailings to Western Mediterranean destinations and the Greek islands.

Added to the regional restrictions, the market has seen a recent surge in jet fuel prices of over 80%, which could push up the costs of flights and holidays ahead of the summer and even lead to flight cancellations. The bulk of aviation kerosene is shipped from the Gulf states through the Strait of Hormuz, which is at present effectively closed.