The escalation of the conflict in the Middle East has significantly impacted the tourism sector in Kyrgyzstan. Tour operators report a decline in interest for trips to the Persian Gulf and a redistribution of requests to other destinations.
The founder of a well-known travel company, Talant Ozokeiev, noted in an interview with the "Kabar" agency that due to the current tensions, many Kyrgyzstani citizens have started to avoid flights, especially to countries like Dubai, Qatar, and Kuwait. As a result, sales of tours to these destinations have currently been completely halted.
In light of these changes, travel companies are redirecting their clients to alternative routes, primarily to Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, and Hainan Island.
There is also a noted decrease in interest in Egypt, as some tourists have concerns about traveling to this region due to its proximity to Israel.
Prices for tours have also undergone changes. Ozokeiev reported that the cost of trips to Egypt and Turkey has decreased, while prices for some destinations in Southeast Asia are on the rise.
According to tour operators' forecasts, demand for destinations in the Middle East may virtually disappear for at least the upcoming season, and tourists' attention will be focused on Southeast Asian countries, especially Vietnam.
