Package Holidays Cancelled Amid Iran-US Conflict: Refund Rights Explained
Package holiday providers, including Intrepid Travel and Tui, have cancelled upcoming tours as a result of the escalating conflict between Israel, the US, and Iran. This move impacts thousands of travellers and raises critical questions about consumer rights and safety protocols in volatile regions.
Intrepid Travel's Cancellations and Statement
Intrepid Travel has issued a formal statement confirming the cancellation of departures in Egypt, Jordan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia up to and including 31 March. The company emphasised that passenger safety is its top priority amidst the geopolitical tensions.
Zina Bencheikh, managing director for the region, expressed concern for local economies, noting: "Jordan and Egypt have already been through a difficult time and both were having an amazing start to the year with bookings up over 75 per cent. This makes the current moment especially worrying for our partners whose livelihoods depend on tourism." She added that the company hopes for a swift resolution to restore travel confidence in the Middle East.
Other Major Operators Take Action
Several other popular tour operators have similarly postponed or cancelled packages in response to the conflict. First Choice released an update on Sunday, stating that its pre-travel team will proactively contact customers scheduled to travel to Qatar or the UAE to discuss alternatives.
Tui cancelled four flights to Cyprus on Wednesday, 4 March, but plans to resume services to the island on Saturday, 7 March, pending further developments. Affected customers are being offered the choice to amend their bookings or receive a full refund. Tui also indicated readiness to operate special repatriation flights to the UK with government approval if necessary.
G Adventures has suspended operations in Jordan, Egypt, and Oman up to and including 22 March. A spokesperson explained: "We are proactively contacting all affected travellers to advise them on our flexible rebooking options. Any trips already operating on the ground in Jordan and Egypt will continue to run as scheduled, and we are working with travellers to support them should they wish to cancel and depart early."
Loveholidays and Abta's Responses
Loveholidays has advised customers in the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain to follow Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance and local authorities. The company has cancelled and refunded all holidays to these destinations departing up to and including 10 March. A spokesperson acknowledged high contact volumes, urging patience as they prioritise assistance for those in affected areas or with imminent travel plans.
Abta, the UK's largest travel association, has established a dedicated support site for holiday providers. The organisation recommends that travellers due to visit or transit through the Middle East monitor the situation closely and contact their package provider for specific advice and updates.
Consumer Protection and Refund Rights
Booking a package holiday in the UK, as opposed to arranging travel components separately, offers the highest level of consumer protection under current regulations. If a trip is cancelled due to conflicts or other disruptions, holidaymakers are entitled to a full refund or an alternative holiday. This legal safeguard ensures that travellers are not left financially vulnerable during unforeseen crises.
As the conflict evolves, operators continue to assess risks and adjust itineraries. Travellers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and maintain open communication with their providers to navigate potential changes effectively.
