The ongoing conflict in Iran is reverberating across global travel markets, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimating daily losses of at least $600 million in international visitor spending across the Middle East. The crisis has disrupted air travel, shaken traveller confidence and placed additional strain on regional connectivity.

Africa’s tourism sector is already feeling the pressure, as safety concerns and flight disruptions through major Gulf transit hubs threaten inbound travel to the continent. Industry players warn that this could lead to declining visitor numbers and reduced tourism revenue, particularly for destinations heavily reliant on long‑haul travellers.

CEO of Cape Town Tourism, Enver Duminy, discusses the impact the Middle East conflict is having on tourism in Cape Town and the rest of South Africa.