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Some UAE residents put travel plans on hold amid 'US-Iran situation': Experts
Despite the uncertainty, travel planning has not stopped completely. Agents said many residents are continuing with visa applications, especially for Europe, as appointment slots are limited
- PUBLISHED: Tue 3 Feb 2026, 2:06 PM
- By:
- SM Ayaz Zakir
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Mohamed Husam, a sales officer at a real estate firm in Dubai had been planning a summer trip to Europe with his family, after his children repeatedly asked to visit Paris and see the Eiffel Tower. He had started checking flights, comparing hotel prices and speaking to a travel agent about a Schengen visa appointment.
However, Hassan decided to pause his plans and wait for more clarity before booking. “The children are excited and still talk about the trip, but as a family, we want to be careful,” he said. “We don’t want to rush and then worry later. Once the situation becomes clearer, we will confirm our plans.”
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He said the family is continuing with visa preparations so they do not miss appointment dates, but prefers to delay booking flights and hotels until he feels more confident.
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Travel agents in the UAE said that Husam’s situation is becoming common among some residents.
Mir Wasim Raja, manager at International Travel Services, said some travellers are choosing to wait before confirming their plans. “Some residents are waiting for a clearer picture of what will happen in the Middle East, especially around the US and Iran situation,” he said.
“A few of our clients had put their travel plans on hold. However, with the recent updates about talks, people are feeling more hopeful about peace and are slowly starting to enquire again.”
In the latest diplomatic developments, the United States and Iran are preparing to resume talks this week aimed at easing tensions and avoiding a wider conflict. Officials from both sides are expected to meet in Istanbul to discuss a possible nuclear agreement, with regional partners from countries such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt also involved.
Despite the uncertainty, travel planning has not stopped completely. Agents said many residents are continuing with visa applications, especially for Europe, as appointment slots are limited.
Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager at Wisefox Tourism, said travellers understand the pressure around Schengen visas. “People are still applying for visas and planning their holidays. Getting a Schengen visa for summer is already difficult,” he said.
“Travellers know that if they miss their appointment dates now, they may not get another chance. If that happens, their summer holidays are almost gone. That is why many are planning ahead instead of waiting too long.”
Agents also said there has been no panic or large-scale cancellations so far, but caution is clearly visible.
Pavan Poojary, a travel consultant at Luxury Travels, said conflict fears have not had a major impact yet. “There is no panic and no rush to cancel trips,” he said. “But people are waiting for clarity before confirming bookings. Summer travel is still being discussed, though some families are cautious and want to be sure before they go ahead.”
SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.
