More than 2,000 tourists have been stranded at Velana International Airport after several countries closed their airspace amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, according to a senior industry official.
Mohamed Firaq of Inner Maldives, the local agent for several major airlines, said emergency measures were implemented after the disruption left thousands unable to depart.
“Effective coordination, clear communication and swift, robust action among relevant agencies is essential to ensure the safety of tourists and maintain the reputation of the Maldives tourism sector,” Firaq said.
The disruption follows joint US and Israeli attacks on Iran, which have raised fears of a wider regional war. In retaliation, Iran has targeted US military bases in the Middle East.
United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia subsequently closed their airspace, leading to the suspension of all flights to the Maldives from major Middle Eastern hubs.
Nine flights were cancelled today alone. Services to and from Dubai, Sharjah, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and Doha have been suspended.
Dubai and Doha are key transit points for tourist from Europe and other regions visiting Maldives. The airspace closures are therefore expected to significantly disrupt tourist arrivals to the Maldives.
