Middle East Conflict Disrupts Travel Plans: Insurance Coverage and Airline Responses

Escalating tensions in the Middle East, including attacks on airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and airspace closures across the region, are causing significant disruption to international travel, particularly for those connecting through key hubs. As of March 1, 2026, travelers are facing cancellations, delays, and uncertainty regarding insurance coverage. The Australian government has advised citizens “Do not travel” to several countries in the region, including the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Israel, Iran, Lebanon and Kuwait .

Which Airlines Are Affected?

Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways are the most directly affected carriers. Disruptions similarly impact passengers of Virgin Australia, which leases Qatar Airways planes and crew for flights via Doha, and Qantas, due to its codeshare agreement with Emirates, potentially routing passengers through Dubai . Airlines are, for the most part, offering to rebook passengers or provide refunds, but immediate travel plans are most vulnerable.

Will Travel Insurance Cover Disruptions?

Unfortunately, travel insurance is unlikely to cover costs associated with disruptions caused by the conflict. Most policies contain a “force majeure” clause, which typically excludes acts of war, political unrest, and terrorism . This means that expenses for rebooked flights, accommodation, or alternative travel arrangements are generally not reimbursable.

Understanding Force Majeure

Force majeure refers to events outside the control of travelers or travel operators, including natural disasters, terrorist activity, and war. Travel suppliers often include force majeure clauses in their terms and conditions, absolving them of contractual obligations when such events occur . Australian common law generally does not override these clauses.

What Do Insurance Policies Typically Exclude?

According to policy statements, Allianz and Cover-More explicitly exclude claims arising from acts of war, whether declared or undeclared, rebellion, revolution, or military action . Insurers also typically deny claims for travel to countries with a “Do not travel” advisory issued by government authorities.

What About Tour Operators?

If a tour is scheduled to depart and a force majeure event occurs beforehand, the operator may cancel the trip and offer a refund, minus any unrecoverable costs. However, some operators reserve the right to cancel or postpone tours at their discretion without providing refunds or compensation . Operators may also proceed with tours if they deem the risk manageable.

Key Takeaways

• Travel to the Middle East is significantly disrupted due to escalating conflict.
• Travel insurance is unlikely to cover cancellations or delays resulting from the conflict.
• Airlines are offering rebooking options or refunds, but immediate travel plans are most affected.
• Force majeure clauses in travel contracts typically exclude coverage for acts of war and political unrest.