The crisis in the Middle East continues to affect inbound tourism in Europe, according to a new survey by ETOA. In August, 45% of the tourism businesses that participated said that the impact was high, up from 32% in July.
The survey was based on 64 responses from tour operators, wholesalers, OTAs and destination management companies. Among the survey participants, 62% reported weaker demand, 52% faced increased uncertainty over flight, hotel and coach prices, while 29% reported that their clients turned to destinations within Europe.
Pressure on demand and margins
According to the survey, businesses are adjusting their prices and in some cases postponing trips until 2027. Uncertainty over demand and pressure on margins remain the key issues highlighted by participants for the coming months.
For tourism and hospitality professionals, the findings show that the demand outlook remains fragile in specific segments of the market, with changes in transportation and accommodation prices directly affecting booking planning.
What ETOA’s sample shows
- 45% reported a high impact in August, up from 32% in July.
- 62% saw weaker demand.
- 52% faced greater price uncertainty for flights, hotels and coaches.
- 29% said that their clients turned to destinations within Europe.
ETOA published the findings as part of its analysis titled Middle East Crisis: Impact on Buyers of European Tourism Services | August 2026, without providing further estimates beyond the survey findings.
