Israel-Iran war hits Gujarat tourism: Tour operators claim losses of ₹500 cr

The conflict between Israel, the US, and Iran has significantly impacted Gujarat’s tour operators, leaving them financially strained. Due to the war in Gulf countries, tours to destinations like Dubai, Turkey, and Oman have currently been halted. Expectations of heavy bookings to Dubai during the summer vacation season have proven wrong.

Moreover, travel agents have already paid advance amounts worth crores to hotels and resorts in Dubai, which are now stuck. According to tour operators, tourists have started avoiding travel due to the war, leading to an estimated loss of over ₹500 crore.

All bookings for Dubai, Turkey, and Oman tour packages have been cancelled. Dubai has been a favorite destination among Gujarati travelers, and operators had even offered special discounts to boost bookings. However, the war has completely changed the situation. Reports of Iranian attacks near Dubai have raised panic among travelers.

Now, tourists are shifting their preference to destinations like Singapore, Bali, Vietnam, and Malaysia.

Moreover, with flights to Europe and other countries flying over Middle East, airlines including Etihad and Qatar Airways have changed their schedules, and flight frequency has reduced. As a result, travel to Europe and other destinations has become more expensive.

Tour package prices for Europe and other countries have increased by up to 10%. For example:

Europe tour packages have increased from ₹3 lakh to around ₹3.25 lakh

Singapore tour packages have risen from ₹1.15 lakh to about ₹1.30 lakh

Additionally, rising fuel prices globally have made sightseeing more expensive.

Due to the worsening global situation, many travelers have canceled their international trips altogether. Tour operators are now waiting anxiously for the situation to stabilize. If the war continues, further losses are expected.

Domestic travel also affected, bookings down 20-25%

Summer vacation is usually the peak earning season for tour operators, but this time, fear among travelers has impacted bookings.

Despite this, some tourists are still eager to travel. Popular domestic destinations among Gujarati travelers include Kerala, Kashmir, Sikkim, and Rajasthan. Many people are opting for group bookings and choosing domestic travel over international trips.

Even then, domestic tour packages have seen a 20-25% drop in bookings.