Canceled flights and rerouted trips: Tourism hit by Middle East conflict
The tourism sector is facing considerable challenges due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. Popular destinations like Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi are now shrouded in uncertainty, according to Dorina Zdorovețchi, the director of a travel agency.
For some tourists, vacations in these regions ended earlier than planned, while others canceled their future reservations.
Currently, requests for travel to the Middle East have decreased considerably, which is understandable. Our recommendation to tourists is to wait and not rush, as human safety is more important than any vacation,” stated Dorina Zdorovețchi during the "Zi de Zi" program on Radio Moldova.
Tour operators have communicated that charter flights for April have been canceled. For regular flights, individuals with reservations are advised to hold off on cancellations.
“If you have purchased a regular ticket and decide to cancel it, you will lose your money. However, if the airline cancels the flight due to safety concerns, your ticket will be refunded,” explained Dorina Zdorovețchi.
The situation may improve in the coming months; therefore, the director mentioned that autumn holidays might still be feasible. However, it is too early to consider reservations for next winter.
Refunds and tourist safety
In the case of canceled charter flights, tourists will receive a full refund.
“I can speak on behalf of my company; in such cases, all money is refunded, as both the hotel and the flight operator do not impose penalties,” the director said.
For tourists wishing to return early from their vacations, the agency offers tailored support for each situation.
“For example, flights from Dubai to the Republic of Moldova have been operating for several days, and we have successfully brought clients home. We had two families who have already returned safely. For exotic destinations like the Maldives, we find alternative flight options through Europe or arrange trips with stopovers in Baku,” reported Dorina Zdorovețchi.
While not all airlines have resumed regular flights, most charter flights remain canceled. No tourist flights to the Emirates are scheduled for the coming weeks.
