“For years I’ve been going to Cairo in the break between the two semesters, nowadays I wouldn’t even think about it because I’m horrified of the condition over there,” said stay-at-home mother Hanan Bakr. “I’m following what’s happening there on TV and my fear is growing by the day.”
Earlier this week, Arab News reported that travel agencies have lost SR230,000 due to canceled reservations. Agencies are trying to offset losses by rebooking packages to other popular destinations, such as Dubai, Jordan, Syria and Turkey.
Some Saudis find Dubai a good alternative to Egypt; others find it too expensive for a short vacation.
“I usually spend a little amount of money in Egypt because it’s cheaper than renting a beach house in Jeddah,” said teacher Ahmed Al-Zahrani.
“I calculated how much money I would need to travel to Dubai and I found that I couldn't afford my four children and I spending a week in Dubai. I would end up broke.”
Saudis who own property in Cairo have added concerns.
“I’ve been trying to reach my caretaker for days now with no response,” said Talal Khouja, Saudi businessman who owns an apartment overlooking Tahrir Square in Cairo where demonstrations and clashes have been focused. “I’m really worried about my place and my belongings being stolen or damaged by the angry protesters.”
Those wishing to travel to Egypt wouldn't be able to anyway, according to Al-Amoudi travel agency in Jeddah.
“There are no flights to Egypt for the time being until further notice, and people who have purchased tickets are free to get refunds or reschedule their flights for later,” said an agent at the company. “We are not authorized to book flights or hotel rooms in Cairo until the situation gets better over there.”
Meanwhile, flights to Dubai are sold out, according to Diera travel agency in Jeddah. Hotels, too, are booked to capacity.
“All of our usual customers are no longer asking for tickets to Egypt and instead asking to book flights to Dubai regardless of the ticket and accommodation prices,” said a manager at Diera. “There are no seats available for the next two weeks.”
