New research from ABTA, the travel association, reveals that the conflict in the Middle East has significantly reshaped holiday booking habits, with nearly a third of UK adults more likely to book through a travel professional. The survey of 2,000 UK adults, conducted by The Nursery Research and Planning between May 8 and May 19, 2026, shows that 31% of those considering a holiday in the next 12 months are more inclined to use a travel professional than before the conflict.
Why Travel Professionals Are in Demand
The top reasons for this shift include knowledge (53%), expertise (44%), and the security of a package holiday (41%). Additionally, 27% of respondents are more likely to book a package holiday than before the conflict. The main attractions of package holidays are having everything taken care of (52%) and the right to a refund or replacement if the holiday cannot be provided (48%), followed by value for money (38%).
Top Summer Destinations: Spain, Italy, France
Despite the conflict's impact on flight routes, Europe remains the top choice for summer travel. Of those planning a holiday abroad in the next 12 months, 84% intend to travel to Europe. Spain leads as the top destination for 38% of those considering a summer trip, followed by Italy (23%) and France (19%). Long-haul destinations also feature, with 13% planning to visit the USA, 6% Australia, and 6% Japan, all in the top 10.
Last-Minute Bookings on the Rise
The conflict has also influenced booking timing, with many travellers waiting to see how prices and the cost of living evolve. Among UK adults planning a summer holiday abroad in 2026, 30% intend to book two to four weeks before departure, and a further 10% plan to book less than two weeks in advance.
Mark Tanzer, chief executive officer of ABTA, commented: "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. With so many people saying they will book late, our advice is to get ahead of the pack and arrange your holiday now to avoid any last-minute rush."
Impact on Flight Routes
The conflict initially caused flight delays, cancellations, and travel advisories. Many routes to or through the Middle East remain cancelled or not reinstated. Travel professionals are seeking alternative routes or offering different destinations. Following the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office's updated travel advice easing restrictions for some Gulf countries, demand for travel to or through the region is expected to rise, but reduced flight options persist for summer, driving the popularity of short-haul European destinations.
