Last-minute bookings to Malta linked to Middle East conflict slow after initial spike

The initial uptick in last-minute bookings to Malta linked to travellers diverting from conflict-affected destinations in the eastern Mediterranean and the Gulf appears to have slowed, according to the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA).

Speaking to BusinessNow.mt, MHRA president Tony Zahra said that while the first days of the regional escalation prompted some travellers to quickly rebook trips to Malta, the momentum has not continued in the following week.

“We didn’t expect that the trend was going to continue,” he said.

“The results of the first week came about when travellers wanted to leave the country they were in and wanted to book somewhere last minute. We aren’t seeing that rush anymore.”

Two weeks ago, industry sources indicated that Malta was seeing an increase in bookings as travellers originally planning holidays in destinations such as Cyprus or Gulf countries redirected their trips. This came amid escalating tensions following the US-Israel war on Iran and retaliatory strikes in the region.

At the time, reports suggested that tourism to Cyprus had been particularly affected after security concerns intensified, including missile activity in the eastern Mediterranean and increased military deployments to the island.

However, Mr Zahra said the situation has since stabilised, with the early spike in last-minute demand fading as travellers adopt a more cautious approach.

“War is something that brings a lot of uncertainty and people wait before they book a holiday,” he said.

According to the MHRA president, the destinations currently facing the most significant tourism disruption include several countries closer to the conflict zone.

“The industries that are suffering most are countries like Cyprus, Egypt, Turkey, and the Middle East,” he said.

While Malta initially benefited from travellers seeking alternative destinations, Mr Zahra cautioned that prolonged geopolitical tensions typically dampen travel demand overall.

“Uncertainty isn’t good for anyone,” he said.

“We hope that the war doesn’t last long.”