New research from ABTA - The Travel Association, has revealed how the conflict in the Middle East has re-shaped how and when people book their holidays, showing that they are more likely to be booking via a travel professional (travel agent and tour operator).
Nearly a third (31%)2 of UK adults said they are more likely than before the current conflict in the Middle East to book with a travel professional. The most common reasons why are their ‘knowledge’ at 53%, ‘expertise’ at 44%, and ‘wanting the security of a package holiday’ at 41%.
Additionally, 27% of people are more likely to book a package holiday than before the current conflict in the Middle East. Having everything taken care of (52%) and the right to a refund or replacement if the holiday can no longer be provided (48%) were the most common reasons why, followed by value for money (38%).
Where are people taking their holidays this summer?
The conflict in the Middle East had a significant impact on travel, initially causing flight delays, cancellations and advice not to travel. The impact continues, with many routes to or travelling through the Middle East cancelled and not yet reinstated, with travel professionals seeking alternative routes or offering different destinations so people can achieve the holidays they want.
Following the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s (FCDO) recently updated travel advice to some countries within the Gulf easing previous restrictions, demand for travel to or through the region is expected to rise in the coming months. However, for the summer, there remain reduced flight options to or through the region, meaning many people are planning a short-haul summer.
Of all those planning to take a holiday abroad over the next 12 months, 84%3 said they are planning to travel to Europe.
Spain leads the way as the top holiday destination for 38% of those considering a holiday abroad this summer. Italy and France round out the top three destinations being considered, with 23% and 19% respectively of those planning a trip this summer looking to travel there.
Despite short haul proving popular this summer, appetite to travel long-haul to destinations further afield remains. 13% plan to holiday in the USA, 6% Australia and 6% Japan all making the Top 10 most popular destinations.
Will people be booking their summer holidays last minute?
The impact of the conflict is also influencing booking habits, with more travellers opting for last-minute bookings, as they wait to see what happens with prices and the wider cost of living.
Of those thinking about going on holiday abroad over the 2026 summer period, 30% of UK adults are leaving booking until 2-4 weeks before planned departure. A further 10% intend to book less than two weeks in advance of travelling.
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive Officer of ABTA, said: “While global events are influencing how people plan and book their holidays, and where they go, our appetite to travel abroad this summer and beyond continues to be strong. People are determined to get away, and the UK’s travel agents and tour operators are expertly placed to help them access the best deals and understand the latest travel advice. With so many people saying they will book late, our advice is to get ahead of the pack and arrange your holiday now to avoid any last-minute rush.”
