TUI Provides Comprehensive Update for Travelers with Bookings from April 20
The travel operator TUI has issued a detailed update for customers who have flights and holidays booked from Monday, April 20, 2026, in response to ongoing developments in the Middle East. This announcement comes as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provides updated travel advice for the region, affecting airspace and destination accessibility.
Flights and Holidays Proceeding as Planned
Despite the conflict in the Middle East leading to airspace restrictions in certain areas, TUI has confirmed that its flights and holidays are continuing as planned. The company emphasized that there is currently no FCDO advice against travel to the destinations where TUI operates, allowing customers to enjoy their breaks as normal. Popular holiday spots such as Turkey and Cyprus remain unaffected, and flights to Europe are operating without disruption.
Monitoring the Evolving Situation
TUI is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and adhering to the latest guidance from the FCDO. In an update released on April 20, the travel firm stated: "We’d like to reassure customers that their safety and wellbeing remain our highest priority." The company has committed to reviewing all FCDO updates continuously and will contact impacted customers directly if any changes to travel advice affect upcoming holidays.
Specific Guidance for UAE and Qatar Travel
While many destinations are unaffected, TUI has warned that customers due to travel to or transit through the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Qatar from the UK may experience delays or cancellations due to airspace restrictions in parts of the region. The FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to these areas, among others like Bahrain. TUI will never operate holidays to any destination or region where such advice is in place.
For customers with bookings to or through the UAE or Qatar on or before May 1, TUI will contact them ahead of their departure date to discuss options. The company is processing bookings in departure date order and has provided a contact number for those who wish to speak sooner, though high call volumes may lead to delays.
Key Points from TUI's Statement
- Holidays are continuing as planned with no current FCDO travel advisories against TUI destinations.
- The situation in the Middle East is being monitored closely, with updates based on FCDO guidance.
- Customers traveling to or transiting through the UAE or Qatar may face disruptions and will be contacted directly.
- TUI prioritizes customer safety and will not operate in regions with FCDO advisories against all but essential travel.
For the latest official information, customers are encouraged to refer to the FCDO Travel Advice website. TUI appreciates patience as their teams assist customers during this period of heightened travel inquiries.
