Maldives has mobilised a coordinated response to assist nearly 1,400 tourists stranded following flight cancellations linked to the escalating Middle East conflict, with Tourism and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim personally overseeing relief efforts at Velana International Airport.
Eight scheduled outbound flights were cancelled, leaving hundreds of visitors temporarily unable to depart. Minister Thoriq visited the airport to assess conditions and ensure that affected travellers receive immediate support, accommodation options and logistical assistance.
He stated that once cancellations began, arrangements were made for tourists to return to their respective resorts or guesthouses. Some travellers chose to remain at the airport to manage re bookings or await alternative flights, while others preferred to monitor developments before deciding on their next steps. Authorities have been facilitating both options.
The Minister commended Maldives Airports Company Limited for its operational support, noting that the airport operator has worked closely with the Government and the tourism industry to ensure stranded guests are as comfortable as possible.
“The tourists are staying relatively comfortably within the terminal. Additionally, MACL is providing blankets and other essentials to allow them to rest on the floor. The government, the tourism industry and MACL are working together to ensure these travellers can spend the night comfortably and to determine how we can best assist them until they are able to depart. We are also looking into providing further facilities for families, including cleaning and opening the former Island Aviation lounge to accommodate them,” Minister Thoriq said.
Stranded passengers are currently sheltered in the former domestic terminal and the air conditioned area beneath the restaurant opposite the domestic terminal. Sleeping arrangements and access to water have been arranged.
Meanwhile, MACL has urged passengers travelling to Middle Eastern destinations to verify the latest flight information through airline websites and mobile applications before heading to the airport. Travellers are also advised to remain in contact with tour operators, follow airline instructions and plan journeys carefully amid ongoing regional disruptions.
The swift response reflects Maldives’ commitment to protecting visitor welfare and maintaining operational stability at its main international gateway during a period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.
