Tourism across the Middle East has taken a major hit as the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel continues to escalate. Several prominent tourist destinations in the region are facing severe disruptions, with airspace closures, repeated attacks, and large numbers of stranded travellers impacting both leisure and business travel.

Key tourism hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Doha in Qatar, Manama in Bahrain, and Kuwait City in Kuwait are witnessing a sharp slowdown in tourism activity. These cities have also reported a series of missile and drone attacks, heightening safety concerns for visitors.

Thousands of tourists remain stranded in hotels following the suspension of air services across the region. Reports indicate that properties such as Fairmont The Palm and the Crowne Plaza Manama hotel complex were affected by missile and drone attacks. In another incident, Burj Al Arab sustained a minor fire on its outer facade after debris from an intercepted Iranian drone struck the building during retaliatory strikes on February 28, 2026.

Aviation operations across the region remain heavily restricted. Hamad International Airport, one of the world’s key transit hubs, announced on X that, "Hamad International Airport’s flight operations remain suspended and will resume once Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe reopening of Qatari airspace.

The safety and well-being of our passengers and employees remain our top priority. This is a precautionary measure based on the latest developments in the region.

Passengers are advised not to proceed to the airport and to check with their respective airlines for latest flight information until further notice."

Meanwhile, Dubai Airports confirmed that a concourse at Dubai International Airport sustained minor damage in an incident that was quickly contained. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed and continue to manage the situation in coordination with relevant authorities.

Airlines have also announced extended suspensions. Emirates confirmed the suspension of all Dubai flights until 3:00 PM on March 3 amid the ongoing tensions. IndiGo stated that after carefully reviewing regional developments, it is extending the temporary suspension of select international flights operating through parts of Middle Eastern airspace. The airline added that certain other international services may also be impacted as schedules are adjusted.

To assist travellers, IndiGo is offering full flexibility and travel waivers for flights to and from the Middle East, along with other affected international sectors, until March 7 for bookings made on or before February 28. Affected passengers can reschedule at no additional cost or opt for a full refund, with updates being shared directly through registered contact details.

Adding to the impact on the region, stock exchanges in Abu Dhabi and Dubai will remain shut on March 2 and 3 as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East. With travel, tourism, and financial markets all under pressure, industry experts expect the regional tourism sector to face prolonged challenges until stability returns.