Escalating tensions from the US-Israel strike on Iran are triggering fuel shortages and energy restrictions far beyond the Middle East-hitting major tourist destinations hard.
In Sri Lanka, which welcomed over 2 million foreign tourists in 2024-more than half from Europe-the government has imposed a four-day workweek for non-essential officials and limited fuel purchases. However, hotels and tour operators receive special exemptions to shield tourism.
Egypt, fresh off a record 19 million international arrivals in 2025 following the Grand Egyptian Museum’s debut, will enforce early closures: shops and restaurants must shut by 9 p.m. weekdays and 10 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays starting March 28 to conserve energy.
Thailand faces acute taxi shortages at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. Only 2,500 of the usual 6,000 airport taxis are operating due to fuel scarcity, with drivers avoiding long trips. Public transport fares remain capped despite rising costs.