The war in the Middle East and the travels of Poles. The industry is fending off the crisis
According to Niewiadomski, the current situation does not resemble the crisis caused by the pandemic. The industry is better prepared for possible shocks, and a wide travel offer allows for quick adaptation to changes and minimizes the risk of serious losses. The President of PIT noted that after a temporary drop in sales, the booking dynamics increased significantly Customers increasingly decide to purchase trips just before their planned trip.
Niewiadomski pointed out that after the first shock related to the outbreak of war, sales of trips began to grow again. In his opinion, if current trends continuesummer season summary and winter forecasts may show an increase in sales compared to previous years. He also added that after the period of pandemic restrictions, the tourism industry in Poland is recording dynamic growth year on year.
Changes on the foreign travel market
The most visible effects of the conflict in the Middle East concern the countries of the Persian Gulf region. According to Niewiadomski, sales of trips to these countries have dropped significantly, and few reservations are made for distant dates. Initially, interest in Asian destinations that required transfers also decreased in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha. However, after changing the transfer airports to others, for example in Istanbul, Poles again began to choose Asia as their travel destination.
Increased popularity of classical directions
Traditional holiday destinations in Southern Europe have gained popularity in recent months. The President of PIT pointed out that Spain, Greece and Portugal are currently recording higher sales dynamics and have been among the most frequently chosen holiday destinations by Poles for years. After an initial drop in interest, sales of trips to Turkey and Egypt gradually recovered. Niewiadomski explained that after the outbreak of war in the Middle East, customers considered these countries to be potentially at risk, but the situation was calmed down by announcements from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Poland is gaining popularity
According to the president of PIT, the current situation may contribute to an increase in interest in recreation in the country. More and more Poles are considering spending their holidays in Poland, and the number of foreign tourists visiting our country is also growing.
Stable prices and availability of trips
Niewiadomski emphasized that the increase in aviation fuel prices did not translate into significant increases in the prices of organized trips, which is possible thanks to the relatively strong zloty. He noted that the prices of trips have increased by several percent, but these increases do not significantly affect the demand for trips abroad. The expert also added that possible difficulties with the availability of aviation fuel do not currently pose a threat to the industry. In his opinion, the restrictions on connections result from the policy of airlines, which reduce some flights due to higher operating costs, and not from the lack of fuel.
Record number of travel agency clients
According to data from the Tourist Guarantee Fund, last year almost 10 million Poles used the services of travel agencies, which means an increase of 10%. compared to 2024
Support for tourists in connection with the war
In March, in response to the situation in the Middle East, payments from the Tourist Aid Fund were launched. Tourists whose trips to the Middle East were canceled due to the war could apply for a refund of the funds paid. The refunds were financed by tour operators from loans granted from TFP funds.
