FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Middle East Air Travel to United States Slumps

by KatieS

May 12, 2017
News

The uncertainty surrounding President Trump’s suspended travel ban has had a direct effect on travel to the United States from the Middle East.

The Airlines Reporting Corporation reports planned travel to the United States from the region is down 5.77 percent since Trump began efforts to temporarily ban visitors from half a dozen Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East and Africa.

“Given the back-and-forth on the executive orders and the court challenges — and we’re not sure yet where that’s going to shake out — I think that uncertainty for travelers that have discretion is leading them to say, “Well, maybe this year, we’ll go to a different destination,” said Chuck Thackston, managing director of enterprise information, ARC.

Customers purchased 383,154 fares from the Middle East to the United States during the first quarter of 2017 compared to 406,611 fares in the same period in 2016. Surprisingly, average fares from the Middle East to the United States increased considerably this year. While the United States hosts fewer travelers from the Middle East, visitors pay an average airfare of $1,026.28 — up nearly $200 from $857.48 last year.

Data shows the number of trips to the United States continues to climb, but the rate of growth has fallen, dropping to 5 percent in the first quarter of 2017, compared to 85 percent during the same period in 2016.

A recent poll conducted by Brand USA, a tourism marketing agency, shows travelers of 11 countries not included in Trump’s executive order are less likely to visit the United States due to the changing political climate compared to last year.

Another recent study conducted by Virtuoso, a luxury travel network, noted a similar finding that 42 percent of affiliated travel advisors outside the United States said their clients are avoiding travel because of multiple factors, including opposition to U.S. foreign policy and concerns over obtaining visas.

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Jun 9, 2025

New Downtown and Airport Light Rail Lines to Debut in Austin, Texas, in 2029

Austin's residential and visitor population is surging, creating traffic jams in a city that just a few years ago had none. But public and private business interests are now planning a $7 billion voter-approved light rail plan that will include a nearly 10-mile, on-street rail line through downtown Austin, beginning at 38th and Guadalupe streets and traveling south before splitting on the other side of Lady Bird Lake.

Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage

Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.

Daily
Jun 9, 2025

Cathay, Synchrony and Mastercard Launch Cathay World Elite Mastercard for U.S. Travelers

Cathay, Synchrony and Mastercard recently announced the launch of the new Cathay World Elite Mastercard, a card specifically for U.S. residents.

Slideshow
Jun 9, 2025

7 Iconic Bells Around the World to Put on Your Travel List

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these iconic bells around the world with us.

Lech Walesa on Tour: A Conversation with a Man Who Changed the World

Some events change a nation. Some change the world.

Daily
Jun 9, 2025

L’Ermitage Beverly Hills Debuts New Rooftop Terrace, Lobby Lounge

Summer in Los Angeles is special: Travelers flock to the city to seek out luxurious experiences, celeb sightings, and to hit up classic and well-known hot spots. This summer is extra special for L'Ermitage Beverly Hills, which welcomes new additions and spaces.

Daily
Jun 5, 2025

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Sullivan, New York, Has Much in Store in 2025

The 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair was one of the first major music festivals to offer on-site camping, allowing attendees to remain immersed in the experience without ever leaving the grounds. These days, vast stretches of summer farmland east and west of the festival site are still transformed each summer into a cultural wonderland, offering bazaars, arts and crafts, music and educational events, and camping sites, providing festival-goers with a peaceful escape into nature and allowing visitors today to experience the same landscape that welcomed 450,000 people during the iconic 1969 Woodstock Festival event.

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

Daily
Jun 5, 2025

Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts Unveils Eat Play Love Campaign

Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts recently debuted its Eat Play Love program. Inspired by the novel and film Eat, Pray, Love, the program offers guests a collection of experiences encouraging self-discovery and embracing the art of travel.