Fuel Limits and Shorter Hours Affect Travel Beyond Middle East
Tourism in countries outside the Middle East is also affected by the Iran conflict, especially in places that rely on oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz. While flight cancellations and travel alerts have mainly concerned the region itself, the situation is influencing energy use in parts of Asia. Some destinations popular with international visitors have introduced measures intended to reduce fuel consumption.
Sri Lanka, which welcomed about 2.05 million international visitors in 2024, has introduced a four-day working week for non-essential government staff. Fuel purchase limits are also in place. However, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office notes that special arrangements are expected to support hotels and tour operators, helping limit disruption to visitors already planning holidays on the island.
Egypt is also adjusting energy use, with earlier closing times for shops, malls and restaurants planned for one month starting 28 March. Weekday closing times will move to 9 pm, while venues may stay open until 10 pm on Thursdays and Fridays. In Thailand, fuel shortages have reduced the number of taxis operating at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. As a result, some arriving passengers may experience longer waiting times.
The restrictions mainly affect transport within these countries rather than the ability to travel. In Sri Lanka, hotels and tour operators continue to operate. In Egypt, museums, historic sites and seaside resorts remain open to visitors, although some now close earlier in the evening. In Thailand, buses and trains are running, but journeys may take longer, especially between airports and city centres or on longer routes.
Some consequences of the conflict are also visible beyond the Middle East. Most changes relate to fuel use and shorter opening hours, not border closures or entry requirements. Travellers should check local updates before departure and plan extra time for transport, particularly where taxis are less available or evening schedules have been reduced.
