Tourexpi
The
Middle East is once again grappling with the effects of war but travel and
tourism sector experts are optimistic about the region's ability to recover and
thrive.
Tourism
in the Middle East will adapt and recover from its current challenges, with
resilience and regional cooperation playing key roles, experts told Anadolu.
Julia
Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), said
the current conflict had immediate repercussions, especially in terms of travel
reroutes and flight cancelations, but the industry has proven its ability to
adapt to such crises.
"Tourism
is often a powerful driver of recovery after a conflict or natural
disaster," Simpson said.
She
explained how, even in the middle of a war, countries like Ukraine already are
looking ahead to rebuilding their tourism sectors.
"Ukraine
is already preparing to rebuild its tourism industry, and the same will happen
in the Middle East. The tourism sector can help restore economic benefits and
get things moving again," she noted.
Pointing
out the flexibility of airlines as a key asset in managing disruptions, she
said: "Airlines will move assets around, and tourism will return because
it always does."
She
underlined that tourists need to know that countries like Oman and Saudi Arabia
remain peaceful and beautiful destinations.
Echoing
Simpson, Anita Mendiretta, special advisor to UN Tourism, also drew attention
to the internal strength of Middle Eastern tourism.
"So
much of the resilience of the Middle East is because of its familiarity with
conflict," Mendiretta said.
She
highlighted how regional collaboration within the Gulf Cooperation Council
(GCC) helps maintain a steady flow of travelers, even during times of conflict.
"Much
like ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), the Middle Eastern market
is largely self-sustaining, with travelers from the region continuing to visit
neighboring countries," which serve as a vital engine for economic
stability and recovery, she said.
Pointing
to Jordan and Oman as countries affected by its proximity to conflict, yet
continuing to attract regional travelers, Mendiretta said while international
markets might hesitate, the familiarity and shared culture within the GCC
support continued tourism.
Mendiretta
noted that the development of a unified visa for GCC countries which will
facilitate the free movement of travelers within the region, is an important
step in boosting regional tourism.
Simpson
and Mendiratta stressed that while the current conflict has cast uncertainty
over the region's immediate tourism prospects, the long-term outlook remains
positive.
"Tourism
is a sector that adapts and recovers," said Simpson. "After every
crisis, we see people returning to these destinations."
The
Middle East is positioned to recover faster than many other regions facing
similar crises, Mendiratta stated.
She
stressed that while international routes may be affected by flight cancelations
and airspace restrictions, especially over conflict zones, regional hubs like
Dubai and Istanbul will continue to play key roles in global connectivity.
Airlines,
however, are making decisions based on profitability and risk, prioritizing
routes that are less likely to be disrupted.
Simpson
underlined Türkiye’s rapid recovery in the post-coronavirus pandemic era,
noting that it is the fastest-growing country in terms of tourism among G20
nations.
Turkish
Airlines, in particular, has played a pivotal role in the resurgence,
positioning Istanbul as a crucial global hub, she said.
As
airlines adapt and reroute due to regional conflicts, Türkiye’s strategic
location and strong infrastructure continue to attract travelers, reinforcing
its status as a key player in global tourism, said Simpson.
Image
Credit: © AA
The most interesting news
World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism Heads to Bahrain to Focus on Economic Diversification
The 9th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will take place in Manama, Bahrain, on 18-19 November, with the theme “Gastronomy Tourism: A Driver of Economic Diversification and Inclusion.”
Post-pandemic travel boom, driven by youth, brings to light new global trends
Young travelers exploring lesser-known destinations, event-driven trips like concerts growing, says CEO of Trip.com
Cruise Saudi to enter Mediterranean with first tailor-made Arabian excursion
Aroya Cruise to set sail with unique focus on Arabian market, marking significant step in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism strategy, CEO Lars Clasen tells Anadolu.
Embark on a Journey of Holistic Wellbeing at Banyan Tree Dubai's Brand-New Spa
Offering seven private ensuite treatment rooms featuring jacuzzis and showers, the spa provides the ideal retreat to unwind, complemented by vitality pools, heated loungers, and the signature Rainforest experience.
Lufthansa Group awarded ‘Best Airline App 2024’ worldwide
The Lufthansa Group has been awarded the prize for the world's best airline app 2024 at the World Aviation Festival (WAF).
Seabourn Unveils New 2026 Voyages With Over 200 Destinations In Nearly 40 Countries
Now open for sale: The ultra-luxury cruise line unveils voyages to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, Japan, and Canada and New England between March and December 2026.
Indigenous Tourism to Inject $67BN USD into Global Economy Says WTTC Report
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) launched a landmark report at its Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia, highlighting how Indigenous tourism is projected to contribute $67BN USD to the global economy by 2034.
Six Senses Awarded MICHELIN Keys in Europe and Asia
The MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural hotel recognition program, MICHELIN Keys, has awarded Two Keys to Six Senses Yao Noi and Six Senses Samui in Thailand and One Key to Six Senses Rome and Six Senses Kyoto.
Holland America Line's 2026 Canada and New England Season Features More Cruises
Two ships offer extended season from April through October; New Legendary Voyage showcases natural grandeur of Canada, New England and Iceland.
The Destination by Hyatt Brand Reaches New Peaks with Cheyenne Mountain Resort in Colorado Springs
The mountainside resort will complement the diverse collection of Destination by Hyatt hotels through immersive year-round guest experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Younger generations drive record cruise growth globally
Millennials, Gen X now make up nearly half of cruise passengers while industry sees surge in first-time travelers, multi-generational family trips, head of top sectoral body tells Anadolu.
Kempinski Signs Agreement to Manage the Most Exclusive Branded Residences in Azerbaijan
Rising above the steel-blue waters of the Caspian Sea, Kempinski Residences Bayil Bay will become the most coveted address in the Azerbaijani capital when it opens in 2025.
WTTC launches ‘Together in Travel’ to empower Small and Medium Enterprises
Global initiative aims to strengthen support for SMEs and foster sustainable growth.
Condor also responds to increased costs in Hamburg: 13 percent fewer flights in summer 2025
Due to significantly increased costs in Hamburg, Condor is also adjusting its schedule for summer 2025.
Business Travel Set to Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels to Reach a Record US$1.5 trillion in 2024
A new report from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed that business travel is set to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year, faster than previously predicted, to reach a record US$1.5TN.
Mammoth move: Kenya transferring dozens of elephants to quell human-wildlife conflict
Kenyan authorities are expected to soon complete the transfer of dozens of elephants in the Mwea National Reserve to Aberdare National Park to protect humans and wildlife from escalating conflict as the tusker population booms
Inaugural MICHELIN Keys recognize IHG Hotels & Resorts
14 Prestigious MICHELIN Keys awarded to properties within IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle portfolio.
World’s domestic tourism market to reach $7.5T in 2033: Tourism association head
Türkiye’s aim to reach 60M tourists is feasible, says president of tourism investors association.
Turkey plans to build a railway on 3rd Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul
World Bank and international lenders showing keen interest in project, says Abdulkadir Uraloglu.
First Saudi Protected Area Listed on IUCN Green List
Ibex Reserve, just south of Riyadh, joins global gold standard for protected and conserved areas.
Oceania Cruises Unveils 2026 Collection of Voyages with a World of Discovery
Experience the Magic of Small Ship Voyages Exploring Lesser-Known Ports, Iconic Cities, and Vibrant Resort Towns.