Uncertainty related to the fuel crisis looms over Croatia ahead of the summer tourist season, AP reports, according to UNN.
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Summer is still a few months away, but the streets of Dubrovnik's old town are already crowded with tourists from all over the world. Usually, this is a sign of a successful upcoming season, but this year, uncertainty hangs in the air.
Global instability caused by the war with Iran and soaring fuel prices has introduced unpredictability into the tourism industry, including in Dubrovnik, Croatia's premier Adriatic Sea resort, which attracts millions of visitors annually.
The stakes are high for Croatia's economy: the tourism sector is one of the country's key sources of income and depends heavily on foreign tourists.
While tourist numbers in Dubrovnik have increased, authorities warn that nothing is guaranteed. The fuel crisis and tensions in the Persian Gulf could lead to rising airfares and a slowdown in tourist arrivals just as the season gains momentum.
Miro Draskovic, director of the Dubrovnik Tourist Board, noted that while the American market remains strong, some Australian travelers, who are typically among the top 10 nationalities visiting the city, are now "facing difficulties traveling to Europe."
"The situation is certainly very, very difficult, and we are monitoring what is happening every day," he told the Associated Press.
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So far, everything looks good. Dubrovnik Airport recorded a 13 percent increase in visitors over the Easter holidays compared to the same period last year. Its lively atmosphere and boats carrying tourists testify to the city's enduring appeal.
The UNESCO-protected city is known for its rich medieval history, seaside location, and the churches and palaces within its stone walls. Dubrovnik's popularity skyrocketed after it became a filming location for the hit series "Game of Thrones."
Compared to other regions of the country, Dubrovnik could be harder hit if the fuel crisis deepens due to its location at the southern tip of the Croatian Adriatic coast. About 80% of tourists arrive in Dubrovnik by plane.
Marina Ruso Mileusnic, spokesperson for the city's airport, which is connected to about 70 airports worldwide, stated: "We are very cautious about the upcoming season."
Draskovic expressed hope for a quick return to normalcy. Until then, he said, "we can only work day by day to ensure the best possible season."
Addition
Last year, nearly 22 million tourists visited Croatia. Of the approximately 110 million overnight stays in 2025, 4.28 million were recorded in Dubrovnik alone, according to national tourist board data.