Impact of US Bombing on Tourism in Andalucía

The recent bombing of three nuclear plants in Iran by the United States has sent shockwaves throughout the tourism sector. This industry is highly sensitive to any event that causes instability, and the current situation is no exception. While it is still too early to accurately assess the impact of this action, which may lead to a significant escalation of war, it is clear that the uncertainty it has created is affecting the busiest months for tourism in Andalucía, particularly in Malaga.

After speaking with numerous tourism professionals, it is evident that the US bombing of Iran has led to various scenarios that are still unfolding due to the short timeframe and the need to wait and see if the conflict escalates further. For example, last Monday, Iran bombed US bases in Qatar. While there have been no cancellations to date, the uncertainty generated in the Middle East is causing a slowdown in demand. This is a significant concern for the industry, especially since Malaga has direct air connections to the capitals of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and it is also a competitor to Egypt, a recovering market.

Sergio García, head of Spain’s association of travel agencies, has provided initial estimates of the impact this new situation may have on tourism. According to data released by the national trade association for this sector, there may be a 10% drop in travel from Spain to the United States. This decline could be even more pronounced in terms of Americans traveling to Spanish destinations, including Malaga, which has a direct flight to New York operated by United Airlines. García predicts that this figure, which was already a concern due to President Trump’s back-and-forth on tariff issues, will now become more pressing and could potentially worsen.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is responsible for transporting over 20% of the oil consumed by airlines, is another major concern for travel agents. If this happens, it could lead to an increase in flight prices and further impact the tourism industry. As García explains, “It is clear that tourism is the first thing to be affected.

Despite the uncertainty and fear of travel that conflicts like this can create, experience has shown that the Costa del Sol tends to come out on top. This is due to the fact that it is considered a “safe haven” destination for tourists who may choose to change their travel plans. Javier Hernández, vice-president of Aehcos (the association of hotel business owners on the Costa del Sol), confirms that there have been no cancellations from those who had planned to travel to Malaga’s coastline. However, he points to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz as the biggest concern at the moment, as it could lead to an increase in oil prices.

Arturo Bernal, the Junta’s regional minister for tourism, believes that the impact of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz will be felt in the medium term, with an estimated 10% to