News Desk
The Maldives has moved swiftly to assist thousands of tourists stranded at Velana International Airport after a wave of flight cancellations rippled across global aviation routes in the wake of escalating conflict in the Middle East. A dedicated information counter, established by the Maldives Tourism Board at the domestic terminal, began operating on 28 February to provide real‑time guidance and reassurance to visitors caught in the disruption.
Officials said teams are stationed on site to help travellers navigate rebookings, alternative routings, and accommodation options as airlines worldwide scramble to adjust to widespread airspace closures. The initiative underscores the government’s determination to safeguard the country’s reputation as a reliable and welcoming destination, even amid a crisis far beyond its borders.
The turmoil followed joint U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran earlier in the day, triggering immediate airspace shutdowns or severe restrictions across Iran, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE. Major Middle Eastern carriers — including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Flydubai, Gulf Air, and Kuwait Airways — cancelled hundreds of flights, with regional tallies exceeding 850 cancellations on 28 February alone.
The Maldives, whose tourism‑driven economy depends heavily on long‑haul connectivity through Gulf hubs, felt the effects almost immediately. Nine flights to and from Malé were cancelled on the same day, and local reports estimated that more than 2,000 tourists were left waiting at Velana International Airport as the situation unfolded.
The Ministry of Tourism said it is working closely with airport authorities, airlines, and industry partners to ensure stranded passengers receive timely information and support. Officials urged patience as carriers reassess routing options, noting that the conflict remains fluid and that airspace restrictions may persist.
The government’s broader economic apparatus has also been activated. The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning confirmed it has begun enhanced monitoring of external risks, including potential impacts on fuel supply chains and global markets. With a significant share of the Maldives’ fuel imports routed through Oman, officials are assessing vulnerabilities and coordinating with the State Trading Organisation to ensure uninterrupted supply.
The ministry highlighted that national reserves remain at historically strong levels, giving the administration, led by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, substantial room to absorb external shocks and maintain essential imports. It described this financial buffer as a key strength underpinning the government’s crisis‑readiness and its commitment to economic stability.
With no clear timeline for the reopening of regional airspace, travellers planning to transit through the Middle East have been advised to monitor airline updates closely and prepare for further delays.
For the Maldives, the priority remains clear: maintaining calm, protecting its visitors, and demonstrating that even amid global uncertainty, the country’s institutions are capable, responsive, and prepared.
