British holidaymakers are shifting their Easter travel plans away from Dubai and other destinations near the Middle East as conflict in the region intensifies. Travel companies report falling demand for Turkey, Cyprus and Egypt since the war between the United States and Israel and Iran began on February 28, with many travellers seeking what industry leaders describe as more reassuring alternatives.

Bookings have risen sharply for western European destinations including Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece, as well as for long haul trips to the United States, the Caribbean, Cape Verde, Mauritius, Thailand and India. Travel firms say interest in Atlantic and European locations has surged, while some hotels in Turkey and Cyprus have seen cancellations increase.

Airlines have suspended numerous routes across the Middle East following airport closures and security concerns, with British Airways cancelling flights to Dubai and several other regional hubs for months. The United Kingdom government has advised against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates, and visitor numbers to Dubai are expected to collapse over Easter.

The disruption is costing the region’s tourism industry hundreds of millions of dollars a day, while rising jet fuel prices are expected to push up air fares. Travel companies warn that uncertainty over the length of the conflict makes it difficult to predict the long term financial impact.