Organized tourism is gradually recovering in the Persian Gulf. The French Association of Tour Operators (SETO) has once again authorized the sale of package holidays to several major destinations in the region, following changes in recommendations from the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. For travel agencies and tour operators, this decision allows them to revive some summer and winter sales. However, according to the specialized press, caution remains essential in a geopolitical context that continues to evolve.
Summary
SETO gives the green light to the resumption of travel in the Persian Gulf
After several months of severe disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East, tourism professionals finally have better visibility on part of their programs.
Following the easing of travel advice published by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, SETO now recommends the resumption of package holidays to several destinations in the Persian Gulf.
The following are available for sale again:
Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Oman and Qatar.
The union also clarified that long-haul flights transiting through the major hubs of Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi can once again be used without any particular restrictions. This decision was particularly anticipated by tour operators, many of whose itineraries to Asia and the Indian Ocean relied on these airport hubs.
However, departures to Kuwait, Iraq, Israel and Lebanon remain suspended until further notice.
Why this decision is already a game-changer for tourism professionals
Beyond the reopening of several destinations, the main development is the resumption of air connections.
Since the start of the crisis, many agencies had to revise their routes, bypass certain airspaces or favour longer and often more expensive connections.
The return of the Gulf hubs now makes it possible to find much more favorable operating conditions for many long-haul destinations.
This development should in particular facilitate the marketing of holidays to the Maldives, the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia or even certain Asian destinations served by Gulf companies.
This recovery is taking place within a more favorable diplomatic context
This decision comes after the signing of a diplomatic memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, which helped to reduce regional tensions and encourage a relaxation of official recommendations.
According to the specialized press, this development has allowed a gradual recovery of regional air traffic and a beginning of normalization of transport operations in several Gulf countries.
However, the authorities remind us that the situation remains likely to change rapidly and that the recommendations may be adapted according to the security context.
The Strait of Hormuz serves as a reminder that the situation remains fragile
Although tourism is gradually resuming, the region remains under surveillance.
The International Maritime Organization had launched an operation aimed at facilitating the resumption of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz after several weeks of disruption.
This momentum was slowed, however, following a new incident involving a commercial vessel, a reminder that regional stability remains fragile.
For tourism professionals, this situation confirms the need to maintain daily monitoring of official recommendations before any planning.
Transportation costs could remain high
The resumption of travel does not mean an immediate return to pre-crisis conditions.
According to the latest economic barometer published by Coface, logistical disruptions caused by several months of tensions continue to affect international supply chains.
The credit insurer also points out that oil prices and logistics costs could remain high for an extended period, which could continue to influence airfares and tour package prices in the coming months.
What this recovery actually changes for travel agencies
The SETO decision allows professionals to put several major premium and winter tourism destinations back in the spotlight.
The United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are gradually regaining their place in the catalogues of French tour operators.
Beyond these markets, the re-establishment of connections via Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi also represents a major operational advantage for all travel to Asia and the Indian Ocean.
Agencies can thus reconstruct more competitive itineraries, while remaining attentive to geopolitical developments and possible updates to official recommendations.
Questions that tourism professionals are asking
Can travel to Dubai resume?
Yes. Departures to the United Arab Emirates can once again be marketed in accordance with the SETO recommendations.
Are connections via Doha and Abu Dhabi permitted?
Yes. The Gulf hubs can once again be used for long-haul flights.
Are all destinations in the Middle East affected?
No. Kuwait, Iraq, Israel and Lebanon remain excluded from the recommendations for resuming operations.
Will prices fall quickly?
There is no evidence to support this. Air transport and energy costs remain under pressure.
Should agencies relaunch their marketing campaigns?
Yes, while maintaining regular monitoring of the recommendations of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and SETO.
Key takeaways
The green light from SETO is excellent news for tourism professionals, but it doesn't signal a complete return to normal. The main hubs in the Gulf are regaining their strategic role in long-haul travel, several premium destinations are becoming accessible again, and agencies can gradually relaunch their operations in the region. At the same time, the geopolitical situation remains fluid and requires continued close monitoring of official recommendations before any marketing activities begin.
Sources
- https://seto.to/
- https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/
- https://www.coface.com/
- https://www.imo.org/
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