The ongoing conflict in the Middle East – coupled with higher aviation fuel prices and disrupted airspace across key Gulf transit hubs – has yet to dampen outbound travel demand from Singapore.
Instead, it is reshaping where travellers are headed, based on sentiment at the recent NATAS Travel Fair.
“Even in times of uncertainty, new opportunities emerge: the diversification of destinations, enhanced travel experiences, and stronger collaboration across borders,” said Steven Ler, president of the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS).
This year’s NATAS fair is bigger, with over 70 exhibitors, including travel agencies, cruise operators and tourism boards, while travel agent participation rose 20%, according to Ler. Two new national tourism organisations also made their debut: Mie (Japan) and Cuba.
Travel intent remains strong. According to Sven Dong, director of cruise business at Trip.com, many visitors arrived at the fair knowing what they wanted. “Some are already booking into 2027.”
Asia and cruising gain ground
At EU Holidays, travellers affected by postponed or cancelled flights are opting for flexibility over refunds.
More than 1,500 affected passengers were offered full refunds without penalty – a policy extended through end-April. Instead of cashing out, at least 30% have opted to retain their funds until end-2026, taking a wait-and-see approach before firming up plans.
“A lot of them are willing to redirect [travel plans] to Asia Pacific, in particular to Japan and China,” said director Ong Hanjie.
Another opportunity that has risen from this destination diversion: cruising.
“Long-haul travellers are cutting short their journeys and swapping their holidays to Europe and America over to Asia,” said Michael Goh, president of StarDream Cruises.
The cruise line has seen an uptick in searches and enquiries over the past month, including for premium products such as The Palace suites.
“A shorter turnaround and the option of shorter sailing dates make cruising a good option,” noted Joshua Sia, business development manager at WTS Travel & Tours.