Fresh research published by ABTA, the travel association, has revealed how the Middle East conflict has transformed holiday booking behaviour, with consumers increasingly turning to travel professionals. Almost a third (31%) of UK adults planning a holiday within the next 12 months indicated they were more inclined to book through a travel professional since the conflict began.
Why Travel Professionals Are in Demand
The primary reasons cited for using travel professionals were their 'knowledge' (53%), 'expertise' (44%), and 'wanting the security of a package holiday' (41%). Additionally, 27% of respondents were more disposed to book a package holiday than before the conflict. Having everything arranged (52%) and entitlement to a refund or replacement if the holiday becomes unavailable (48%) were the most frequently cited reasons for choosing a package, followed by value for money (38%).
Top Summer Destinations for UK Travellers
Despite the conflict, 84% of those planning an overseas holiday in the next 12 months intend to travel to Europe. Spain remains the leading destination, chosen by 38% of those considering a summer holiday abroad. Italy (23%) and France (19%) complete the top three. Long-haul travel also persists: 13% plan to holiday in the USA, 6% in Australia, and 6% in Japan.
Late Bookings on the Rise
The conflict is shaping booking patterns, with more travellers choosing last-minute reservations. Among those considering an overseas holiday in summer 2026, 30% of British adults were delaying bookings until two to four weeks before departure, and 10% planned to book less than two weeks prior. Mark Tanzer, ABTA chief executive, said: "While global events are influencing how people plan and book their holidays and where they go, our appetite to travel abroad this summer and beyond continues to be strong. People are determined to get away and the UK's travel agents and tour operators are expertly placed to help them access the best deals and understand the latest travel advice."
Foreign Office Guidance and Flight Availability
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) recently revised travel guidance to certain Gulf nations, easing earlier restrictions. Demand for journeys to or via the region is expected to increase, but limited flight availability persists for summer, leading many to opt for short-haul breaks. ABTA's survey, conducted by The Nursery Research and Planning, used a nationally representative sample of 2,000 British adults between May 8 and May 19, 2026.
