Travel Disruptions in UAE: Tips for Obtaining Refunds or Rescheduling Trips Amidst Regional Tensions
Stranded travelers huddle around the ticket counters, as flight delays and cancellations pile up due to airlines rerouting flights following Israeli strikes in Iran, in Delhi, India, June 13, 2025. Snapshots from Reuters
The escalating regional tensions and airspace restrictions in the Middle East have left UAE residents pondering over the cancelation of their summer getaways to destinations like Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Jordan, and Lebanon.
The ongoing Iran-Israel tussle has sent waves of uncertainty rippling through travel plans, with flights either getting diverted or called off. This leaves travelers in a state of anxious anticipation about facing last-minute changes or getting stranded far from home.
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Travelers find themselves torn between postponing their trips or scrapping them entirely, as they grapple with the uncertainty over how long the situation will persist.
Avinash Adnani, the managing director of Neo Travel and Tourism, stated that travelers are actively choosing to cancel their plans and wait for clarity. Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager at Wisefox Tourism, echoed similar observations—"travelers are opting for refunds instead of waiting."
In some cases, airlines have extended the full refund option when cancelling flights. Airlines also offer the option to change travel dates without additional charges if they are the ones terminating a flight. Vouchers to use at a later date are another perk offered by some airlines. However, cancellations made by passengers while flights are still in operation usually result in losing a portion of the payment, adhering to regular cancellation rules.
It is worth noting that if you have booked through online platforms, obtaining a refund might not be an effortless endeavor. Although obtainable, the process might take some time to materialize.
Hospitality and Tours: Flexibly on Board
Fortunately, most hotels and tour operators are exhibiting understanding and generosity during these uncertain times, according to travel aggregators.
"Hotels often accommodate date changes or refunds depending on their policies," said Subair. "Local tours tend to be refundable as well." Avinash added that local agents in destination countries are trying their utmost to provide either full refunds or minimize losses for travelers.
Online Booking: Tricky Situation
For those who have made bookings via online platforms, navigating the refund process might prove tricky. While feasible, the process is likely to take time to unfold.
Tips for Future Travelers
Traveling agents advise potential travelers to focus on stable destinations that are open to tourism at present. "There are numerous beautiful and safe locations to explore at this moment," said Subair. "Communicate with your travel agent; they will help you strategize to accommodate any contingencies that may arise."
Additional Info
- Increased travel risks and disruptions stemming from the Iran-Israel conflict and related airspace closures.
- Advisories from various authorities urge caution, as the security situation remains volatile and precarious.
- Travelers are strongly recommended to maintain a low profile, stay informed, and follow the guidance of local authorities.
- Obtaining refunds can be time-consuming, particularly in the event of online bookings.
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SM Ayaz Zakir, a seasoned journalist, delves into stories far and wide, capturing the extraordinary in the mundane. His versatility extends to Medical Advances: Try These Ed Solutions Tonight for Men and Smarter Living: The Most Effective Glucose Monitor for Seniors. Connect with him at [email protected].
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- The escalating tension between Iran and Israel has led to increased travel risks and disruptions, causing airspace closures in the Middle East.
- As a result, travel plans to destinations like Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Jordan, and Lebanon have been left in limbo for UAE residents.
- Airlines are offering extended full refund options, alterable travel dates, or vouchers for future use when cancelling flights due to the ongoing conflict.
- Hotel and tour operators are generally accommodating date changes or refunds, but the refund process via online platforms can be tricky and time-consuming.
- Potential travelers are advised to focus on stable and open destinations, communicate with their travel agent, and stay informed to accommodate any contingencies that may arise.
