Travel Industry Offers Optimism and Support in Response to Middle East Ceasefire

by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 8:25 PM ET, Fri January 17, 2025

After 15 months of devastating conflict, a ceasefire deal has been reached between Israel and Hamas and the travel industry is cautiously welcoming the news.

On Friday afternoon, Israel’s government approved the deal, which allows the ceasefire to come into effect on Sunday and simultaneously allows for the return of hostages, according to a statement from the Israeli prime minister’s office, that was reported by CNN:

“The government has approved the framework for the return of the hostages. The framework for the hostages’ release will come into effect on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Shabbat Shalom.”

The agreement was brought about with the help of Egyptian and Qatari mediators, as well as the support of the Biden Administration.

A just-released snap survey conducted by Global Rescue, a provider of medical, security, evacuation, and travel risk management services, offered an initial look at how the travel industry is responding to the news.

In particular, the survey found that:

A fifth of survey respondents (22 percent) said, the ceasefire deal makes them more likely to consider a trip to Israel or elsewhere in the Middle East in 2025.
The majority (62 percent) said the ceasefire deal does not make them more likely to consider a trip to Israel or elsewhere in the Middle East in 2025. Sixteen percent had no opinion.

"While most travelers remain cautious, with a fifth saying it increases their likelihood of visiting, it also highlights the importance of including robust traveler protection and insurance," Dan Richards, CEO of the Global Rescue Companies and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce, said in a statement.

“It also shows the incredible resilience of travelers to the region since 62 percent say a ceasefire will not impact their travel decisions,” Richards added.

The Israel-Hamas conflict began on October 7, 2023 and resulted in tremendous casualties and widespread devastation in Gaza and Israel.

During the conflict, airlines also suspended flights to the region and tour operators ceased many tours. Reached today by TravelPulse, members of the travel industry offered hope and support in light of the latest developments.

Travel Industry Reacts to Ceasefire

Leigh Barnes, president of the Americas, for Intrepid Travel stressed that what matters first and foremost (beyond travel industry considerations) is the opportunity for peace in the the region and for its people.

At the same time, the impact that the conflict has had on travel operations is undeniable, Barnes added. Tour operators, including Intrepid, halted all tours to Israel and the Palestinian territories.

"This ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for restoring confidence in the region as a travel destination,” added Barnes. “For the travel industry, it’s an opportunity to help rebuild bridges—both literally and figuratively—by encouraging sustainable tourism that supports local economies and fosters cross-cultural understanding.”

What’s more, Intrepid travelers are eager to reconnect with the region, Barnes added.

The challenge for the travel industry moving forward will be in how best to approach tourism in the region responsibly, “ensuring it becomes a tool for economic recovery and a force for long-term stability, not exploitation,” added Barnes.

Karen Krugliak, owner of Florida-based Brit Olom Tours, an agency that specializes in travel to Israel, said she is already witnessing renewed interest in visiting Israel.

“I know that will only increase as more and more airlines resume their schedules into Tel Aviv in the next few months,” added Krugliak.

Many major airlines have said they are planning to reinstate flights to the Middle East following the ceasefire agreement, or have already done so, according to The Independent.

Wizz Air, for instance, resumed flights between London and Tel Aviv, Israel and Amman, Jordan, as of Thursday January 16. Additionally, Lufthansa is set to resume flights to and from Tel Aviv.

“Israel is a bucket-list destination for so many,” said Krugliak of the developments. “Clients may initially want to plan a trip to Israel to focus on religion or history, but quickly discover that they can savor award-winning cuisine, enjoy outdoor adventures and water sports, relax in world-class spas and sample wines from over 300 wineries."

Echoing the sentiments of others, Nicole Mazza, chief marketing officer for TRAVELSAVERS, a company that works with more than 3,000 independently owned agencies in over 35 countries, said the ceasefire will likely make travelers feel more comfortable about exploring the region once again.

“As airlines reinstitute flights and word of mouth from other travelers spreads, we expect to see an upturn in Israel business,” Mazza said. “Israel is a tremendous destination with so much to offer visitors. We look forward to more people experiencing its magic in the near future.”

International Citizens Insurance, a company that serves many travelers, has also seen renewed interest in the region thanks to the ceasefire. But company President Joe Cronin, believes recovery will be gradual.

“While tours to historically stable areas may resume in the next couple of weeks, perceptions around safety will play a deciding factor in people's willingness to travel,” said Cronin.

“Undoubtedly, Egypt and Jordan could swiftly take advantage of the demand due to their historic sites, but the region might take years to return to pre-crisis levels of demand,” Cronin continued. "This is especially true for the luxury operators and cruises that require ironclad stability. In order to fully restore the lost confidence of travelers, sustained ceasefire and clear safety protocols must be in place.”