South Korea's travel industry has entered emergency response mode as worsening Middle East tensions stemming from Iran have caused flight disruptions and airport operation restrictions. Companies are working to minimize consumer losses by protecting customers stranded abroad while canceling scheduled departures.
According to the travel industry on the 3rd, Hana Tour and Modetour have identified approximately 300 and 240 customers respectively currently staying in Middle East regions including Dubai and Cairo. Customers on the ground are remaining in hotels with support from guides and tour escorts. Travel agencies plan to assist with sequential returns as alternative flights become available.
Preemptive cancellations are being implemented for scheduled departures. Hana Tour has suspended operations of Dubai and Abu Dhabi-bound products departing through the 10th and will provide full refunds without cancellation fees. Modetour is also applying a full refund policy for cancellations of Middle East transit and destination products departing through the 8th. The company said subsequent schedules will be determined based on how the situation develops.
Other major travel agencies including Kyowon Tour and Nol Universe (Nol Interpark) have also confirmed cancellation fee waivers due to force majeure, escalating their response measures.
Airline operations have emerged as another variable. Korean Air has extended cancellations of its Incheon-Dubai route through the 8th. Meanwhile, some Middle Eastern airlines have yet to announce clear operational policies. Since cancellation fees and compensation vary depending on airline policies, travel agencies are increasingly making preemptive refund decisions on their own.
The high number of travelers transiting through Middle East airports to reach Europe adds to concerns. Transit routes via Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have maintained steady demand due to lower prices compared to direct flights. However, concerns are growing that prolonged transit flight disruptions could affect Europe-bound itineraries overall. Travel agencies are in discussions with airlines to secure direct routes and arrange alternative transit points.
Regarding support for stranded travelers, the UAE government has issued free extension measures. Under directives from President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE authorities ordered hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to extend stays free of charge for guests unable to depart due to flight cancellations. The support reportedly covers accommodation, meals, return flight costs, and emergency visa issuance fees. Stranded travelers can receive benefits by presenting airline cancellation certificates.
The Israeli government has also established a 24-hour online service center to assist its citizens. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Israel is operating evacuation buses to Cairo, Egypt for Korean nationals facing difficulties with flight arrangements.
The industry is not ruling out the possibility that a prolonged situation could lead to decreased transit demand using Middle Eastern airlines and booking slowdowns. However, the short-term plan is to minimize impact by dispersing demand through securing alternative flights and changing travel destinations.