The ongoing military conflict in the Middle East has not yet had a decisive effect on Batumi’s tourism sector, according to tourism and real estate expert Temur Diasamidze.
Diasamidze noted that while bookings from Israel and Gulf countries have been canceled, the city’s relatively low season means these cancellations have not yet significantly affected overall revenues. In previous years, Israel tourists accounted for 12–13% of Batumi’s tourism revenue, while GCC countries made up 7–8%, together representing roughly 22–25% of the market.
He added that the duration of the conflict and its impact on air travel, inflation, and economic stability remain uncertain, making travelers cautious. Diasamidze emphasized the need for government support, such as temporary tax incentives, and the active pursuit of new tourism markets.
For now, Batumi remains heavily reliant on traditional markets, particularly former Soviet countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. While focusing on domestic tourism could help cushion the impact, overall revenues are still expected to decline.
