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Summer 2026 travel trends: where could UK travel agents redirect bookings after the Middle East crisis?

Middle East
Dea Jusufi
15 April 2026

While a fragile ceasefire has brought some respite to the conflict in Iran, a prompt resumption of tourism activity still feels some way off. So what destinations can and should UK travel agents promote and sell this summer? Operators, tourism boards and industry figures share their views.

Scenic shot of Naxos, Greece
(Credit: iStock/emicristea)

Constrained air capacity and consumer hesitancy are funneling demand into a narrower pool of destinations (Credit: iStock/emicristea)

The ripple effects of the Middle East crisis are reshaping booking patterns for summer 2026, with UK travel agents navigating a double displacement of demand – first from east to west, and then from western Mediterranean hotspots into lesser-known or visited alternatives.

Although the human impact of the conflict remains front of mind, and incalculable, the commercial reality is clear as constrained air capacity and consumer hesitancy funnel demand into a narrower pool of destinations.