German insurers are advising travelers to carefully review their travel insurance policies as the conflict in Iran continues to disrupt travel in the Middle East, according to the German Insurance Association (German Insurance Association – GDV).

Airspace restrictions, flight cancellations and temporary airport closures across the Gulf region have already affected thousands of travelers. In this context, insurers warn that travelers should clearly understand the scope of their travel insurance coverage before cancelling or modifying planned trips.

"Many people are currently wondering whether they can still go on their holiday at all," says GDV Managing Director Jörg Asmussen. "Before a trip, it should be clear when the travel insurance will pay – for example, in the event of an unexpected serious illness, an accident or other personal emergencies. On the other hand, cancellation solely due to a deteriorating security situation at the destination is not insured."

According to GDV, standard travel cancellation insurance typically covers personal reasons, such as serious illness or accidents, but does not usually apply when travelers decide to cancel due to a deteriorating security situation at the destination.

However, travelers who booked package holidays may be able to cancel free of charge if “unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances” significantly affect the trip. Insurers recommend contacting tour operators, travel agencies or insurers promptly to clarify coverage and available options.

GVD stressed out that in addition to travel cancellation insurance, consumers can take out travel interruption insurance. It reimburses the additional costs incurred if you cannot make use of travel services that have already been paid for due to an early return journey or if you are forced to extend your stay. A trip interruption is insured in the event of death, serious accident injury or unexpected serious illness. It also applies if, for example, the policyholder's house is severely damaged by fire, explosion or natural hazards such as flooding or flooding in his or her absence.

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