The turmoil in Ukraine is taking a toll on global tourism, particularly impacting popular Middle Eastern destinations such as Dubai, Cairo, and Istanbul. These cities have long been known for their rich history and booming tourism industries. However, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the resulting global economic instability have caused a ripple effect on these once-thriving travel spots.
According to a report from Euromonitor International, the Ukraine-Russia conflict has caused a $7 billion hit to global tourism in 2022. Middle Eastern countries like Egypt, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates have been particularly affected, as they are popular tourism destinations for Russian and Ukrainian travelers.
Egypt and Turkey, two of the top three favorite travel destinations for Ukrainian and Russian tourists, are feeling the pinch. Egypt's tourism industry has noticed a negative impact, and analysts are forecasting significant losses. In 2019, before the pandemic, Ukraine's tourist arrivals in Egypt increased by 49%, making Ukraine the second-largest source market for tourism in Egypt. However, with the current situation, Egyptian officials are actively trying to attract tourists from other countries, hoping to fill the gap left by the Russian and Ukrainian visitors.
In Turkey, which also welcomed over 2 million Ukrainian tourists and 4.7 million Russian tourists in 2021, there are concerns for reduced income from tourism due to the conflict. Tourism-related businesses in popular vacation spots like Antalya are forecasting a significant drop in visitors. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Nihal Duruk, the marketing manager at Premier Palace Hotel in Antalya, warns that even if a solution to the conflict is found immediately, the tourism industry would have already suffered substantial losses for the next quarter of 2022.
The United Arab Emirates, while not directly impacted by the crisis, has seen an increase in Russian tourists following Moscow lifting a six-year ban on charter flights between the countries in 2021. According to Sputnik, over 700,000 Russian tourists visited the UAE in 2021 alone. However, analysts remain cautious and warn that the Ukraine conflict and resulting sanctions against Russia may continue to impact the Emirates' tourism industry.
Despite the gloomy outlook, some Middle Eastern countries are actively exploring ways to promote travel and tourism, with a focus on attracting visitors from new markets. Efforts to strengthen tourism connections between the UAE and Russia, such as pursuing Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements and increasing promotional activities, are underway.
Middle Eastern countries like Egypt, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates have traditionally relied on Russian and Ukrainian travelers for their tourism industry. However, the ongoing conflict and global economic instability necessitate new strategies to sustain the industry, attract visitors from various markets, and promote cultural and historical attractions.
References: [1] "Ukraine war costs global tourism $7 billion as Middle East hotspots 'struggle to survive'" - CNN () [2] "Ukraine-Russia war impact on MENA hotel markets, tourism, and Russian sanctions" - Colliers International () [3] "Egypt's tourism sector struggles in wake of Russia-Ukraine war" - Arabian Business () [4] "Turkey's tourist season off to a slow start due to Russian sanctions" - The National () [5] "UAE's hotel occupancy rates and revenues took a hit due to Russia-Ukraine war: Report" - Emirates 24/7 () [6] "Russian tourists in Egypt soar to 800,000 in 2021" - Russia Beyond () [7] "Ukraine-Russia conflict could harm Russian tourism to UAE" - GulfToday () [8] "Middle East destinations prepare for tourism rebound in 2022" - Tourism Review ()
