AZE.US
Rising tensions in the region have led to the cancellation of flights and travel packages, creating new challenges for travelers seeking refunds from airlines and hotels.
According to tourism expert Rahman Guliyev, many Azerbaijani citizens traveling through regional hubs such as Dubai and Doha have faced difficulties returning home after flight disruptions. While some evacuation flights have been arranged, the situation remains complicated for a number of passengers.
The expert explained that the refund process largely depends on how the trip was booked. If a traveler purchased a full tour package that includes flights and accommodation, refunds are typically handled by the tour operator in accordance with aviation regulations.
However, when flights and hotel reservations are booked separately, the situation becomes more complicated. Airlines may be required to refund or rebook tickets if flights are canceled or significantly delayed. Hotels, on the other hand, often follow their own cancellation policies and may refuse refunds if the property remains open and able to provide the service.
“In such cases, hotels sometimes consider the situation as a gesture of goodwill, but legally they are not always obliged to return the payment,” Guliyev noted.
He added that destinations near Iran – including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait and Iraq – are currently considered higher risk due to the geopolitical situation. As a result, some travelers are reconsidering their plans.
Despite the disruptions, airlines are attempting to mitigate the impact by offering alternative routes through countries such as Turkey and several Central Asian states.
Experts say the situation may also affect tourism flows to Azerbaijan, as a significant number of visitors traditionally arrive via transit routes through Gulf countries and Asia.
At the same time, the current circumstances could boost domestic tourism. With the Novruz holiday approaching, tourism specialists say local hotels and resorts have an opportunity to attract more domestic travelers – provided they maintain reasonable pricing policies and avoid artificial price increases.
Travelers are advised to closely monitor travel updates and stay in contact with airlines or tour operators before departure, as rapidly changing geopolitical developments continue to affect global travel routes.