News Desk
The Ministry of Higher Education says it is closely monitoring the situation of Maldivian students studying in Middle Eastern countries affected by the ongoing conflict, with a dedicated WhatsApp hotline now active for students in locations where more than 25 Maldivians are enrolled.
At a press conference, Minister of Higher Education, Employment and Skills Development Dr. Ali Haider Ahmed said the Foreign Ministry has been issuing regular advisories via email since the war began. He confirmed that 75 Maldivian students are currently studying across five Middle Eastern countries and have been instructed to register with the nearest Maldivian diplomatic mission.
“We are in continuous contact with students. A helpline has been established so they can reach the ministry directly whenever needed,” Minister Haider said.
The minister added that if universities suspend classes due to the conflict, Maldivian students will be allowed to resume their studies later without penalty. Some students have already requested to return home due to extended university closures, and the ministry is processing the necessary permissions.
Maldivian students in the Middle East
- Egypt: 40 students
- UAE: 21 students
- Turkey: 10 students
- Saudi Arabia: 2 students
- Privately studying in Egypt: 2 students
On 28 February 2026, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu formed a nine‑member ministerial committee to coordinate government responses to the unrest in the Middle East and address any difficulties Maldivians may face as the situation evolves.
