Israel-Hamas War's Impact on Egypt and Jordan Tourism: What You Need to Know

2023-12-21 01:55:04

Peace and happiness have always been lost to war. Because only those who die in war see the end of that war. The Israel-Hamas war that started on October 7th was the life dreams of many people. Thousands died on the battlefield. Thousands of babies have become victims of this war before they can even dream. However, the war did not only affect the people there. The war also affected the tourism sector in neighboring countries.

Jordan Travel. Image Credit: Anastasiia Shavshyna/istockphoto

The tourism industry in neighboring countries Egypt and Jordan has been significantly affected by the Israel-Hamas war. Tourists who had booked tours and cruises to these places canceled it. The issue came up at the annual conference of the United States Tour Operators Association. Not only did the bookings drop sharply, travelers also canceled the tours etc. which were booked in advance for the beginning of the next year.

Cruise company chief says cancellations continue

Many bookings for the first quarter of 2024 have already been cancelled. Pamela Hoffey, president of Avalon Waterways, which operates chartered Nile river cruises, said it was “very difficult for the tourism sector.” About half of the guests have so far canceled bookings for the first half of 2024, they said. They also clarified that the bookings after that have not been affected by this situation. Tourists who cancel their trips will forfeit their $250 deposit. However, tourists are canceling their trips to countries near the war zone without counting this loss. At the same time, officials said that this is not a big loss for those who did not pay the full amount. This loss is also not applicable to travel insurance holders.

Jordan Travel .Image Credit : minoandriani/istockphoto

The war has not only increased bookings in the tourism sector but also increased concerns about terrorist attacks. Because people are afraid of terrorist attacks. People are starting to fear traveling to countries that are close to terrorist attacks and wars. According to a survey by the United States Tour Operators Association, terrorism has become the third biggest concern of travelers. At the same time last year, terrorism was at the bottom of such concerns. Economic uncertainty and rising cost of living are the top two concerns for travelers.

Awaiting tourists in Egypt and Jordan

The pyramids are one of the most important tourist attractions that attract tourists to Egypt. Great Sphinx, Luxor Temple, Valley of Kings and Pyramid of Giza are waiting for tourists. However, recent events show that tourists are reluctant to go to a place in the shadow of a terrorist attack. Many places like the Dead Sea, the place where Christ was baptized and Mount Nebo await tourists in Jordan. However, the tourists think that the Israeli-Gaza conflict will end and they can travel to neighboring countries.

Tour companies are expecting an increase in tourist trips to the region after the first half of 2024. When war and terrorist activities affect the tourism sector, many ordinary people who work in the sector are also affected. There is a large group of people who are in crisis when there is no one to buy the souvenirs, handicrafts and clothes that have been prepared for tourists. For that to change, the tourism sector must overcome all the difficulties and become stronger.

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