The Middle East is on Kiwis’ radar in 2026, as one tour operator reports rising demand for destinations across this region.
Intrepid Travel gm New Zealand Simon Mckearney says one of the more interesting shifts it is seeing for 2026 is growing demand for the Middle East.
Bookings to Egypt are up 58% year on-year, he says, with the country among the most popular overall for Kiwis booking travel in 2026, while Jordan is up 146%, and Oman up 82% year-on-year.
“That tells us Kiwi travellers are feeling confident and are keen to explore destinations that might not have been on their radar a few years ago.” Morocco continues to be popular, while in Asia Vietnam remains in strong demand, though Japan maintains top spot overall for forward bookings, he add.
“Our 12-day Premium Japan trip is currently the most booked itinerary,” says Mckearney. “It offers a great in-depth experience in a relatively short timeframe, with seamless intercity travel by bullet train, making it an ideal first trip to experience the country.”
. . . Aussie Too
Kiwis are also keen on close to home destinations, with Australian trips up some 30% year-on-year, which Mckearney attributes to the global uncertainty. “The most popular trips are Best of Tasmania, Kimberley Trail and Walk Kakadu National Park,” he adds.
This close to home demand is expected to continue throughout this year. “Demand remains strong and we’re in a good position to grow, particularly across our close to-home destinations like Australia, where we see real opportunity for Kiwi travellers to rediscover the region in a more meaningful way.”
Premium touring is showing strong growth for forward bookings.
Mckearney says travellers are still price conscious, but many are willing to invest a little more for extra comfort as long as it still feels local, purposeful and immersive.
“More broadly, we’re seeing people prioritise experiences over material things,” he adds.
