UAE: Travel plans disrupted? Guide to refunds, rescheduling amid regional tensions

With rising regional tensions and airspace closures across the Middle East, many UAE residents are cancelling their summer holidays to the Caucasus and the Middle East, including popular destinations like Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Jordan, and Lebanon.
The uncertainty caused by the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict has disrupted travel plans for many. With airspace closed, flights have either been delayed or cancelled, leaving travellers anxious about getting stranded or facing last-minute changes.
'People are either postponing their plans or cancelling altogether,' said Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager at Wisefox Tourism. 'Travellers are opting for refunds instead of waiting. They are unsure how long the situation will last.'
Avinash Adnani, managing director of Neo Travel and Tourism, observed a similar situation. 'Right now, most travellers are cancelling and waiting for more clarity,' he said.
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According to travel agents, airlines are offering full refunds in some cases. They said that if an airline cancels your flight, you are generally entitled to a full refund or can change your travel dates for free. 'Some airlines are also giving travel vouchers to use at a later date,' said Subair.
However, if you cancel the trip yourself while the flight is still operating, regular cancellation rules apply, which may result in losing a portion of the amount.
'Refunds or date changes are offered only when the flight is cancelled by the airline,' said Adnani. 'If it's a voluntary cancellation, then the standard policies kick in.'
Hotels and tours: 'Mostly flexible'
The good news is that most hotels and tour operators are being supportive during this time, said travel aggregators.
'Hotels are mostly allowing date changes or refunds, depending on their policy,' said Subair. 'Local tours are usually refundable too.'
Avinash added that in many cases, local agents in the destination countries are also doing their best to either offer full refunds or minimise losses. 'They are trying to help as much as possible,' he said.
Online bookings: 'Could be tricky'
For those who booked through online platforms, obtaining a refund may not be as straightforward. While possible, the process often takes time.
Advice for upcoming travellers
Travel experts suggest that when planning a holiday, consider destinations that are stable and currently open to tourism.
'There are plenty of beautiful and safe places to visit right now,' said Subair. 'And talk to your travel agent; they will help you book flexibly in case plans need to change again.'

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