More than half (60%) of holiday firms offering tours globally have reported a drop of 20% or more in enquiries since the start of the Iran war, according to a new poll.
The survey of 112 travel companies worldwide, conducted by Responsible Travel, found that almost 80% reported a drop in enquiries, with 56% seeing no sign of improvement.
All companies whose tours are based in the Middle East reported a drop in enquiries of 20% or more.
The same was true of 68% of those with Asia tours, and 52% of those whose tours are in Europe.
Some companies reported no bookings since the outbreak of the war six weeks ago, with severe cancellation levels of up to 90%.
Some respondents reported fearing long-term impacts from instability and rising costs resulting from the war.
Others were more hopeful of seeing interest pick up “within weeks”, while some operators in regions not directly impacted by the war foresaw increased trading.
Some respondents credited flexible cancellation or postponement policies in helping to reassure travellers and boost confidence.
Responsible Travel works with more than 450 travel company partners worldwide, including many small, independent local operators, and conducted the poll in March and the early part of this month before the two-week ceasefire was confirmed.
Responsible Travel customer director Tim Williamson said “The human costs of war are incalculable, and the announcement of a ceasefire is extremely welcome.
“From an industry perspective, the drop in tourist numbers – as well as rising costs associated with a prolonged conflict – hits small businesses and communities dependent on tourism the hardest.
“We’ve heard first-hand from many of our members worldwide of the significant impacts already felt and concern for livelihoods.
“It’s imperative that this ceasefire becomes permanent and stability resumes.”
