Travel plans to Dubai have been upended by rising tensions in West Asia, leaving tourists stuck between uncertainty and home, while strangers step in with spare rooms and meals
Passengers wait at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport after flights to Middle East countries were delayed amid the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. Pic/PTI
Escalating tensions across West Asia have begun disrupting global air travel, stranding tourists abroad and forcing tour operators in Maharashtra to cancel Dubai departures at the last minute, with flights delayed, tourism activities suspended, and travellers uncertain about when normal travel will resume.
While some visitors report calm conditions on the ground, operators say uncertainty over airspace, airport operations and security risks has already triggered cancellations, refunds and emergency support efforts from local residents abroad.
Industry impact
“Our tour was scheduled to leave on Sunday at 12.30 am, but we cancelled until there is clarity on the situation and safety concerns,” said Nikhil.
He added:
>> Flight refunds mostly processed
>> Hotel refunds largely smooth
>> Visa fees non-refundable
>> No timeline yet for industry normalisation
Tour operator Nikhil Nandgaonkar said his trip was cancelled hours before take-off
Travel disruption at a glance
Tours cancelled: Multiple Maharashtra departures halted
Tourists stranded: Groups across Dubai and other hubs
Flights: Delays and uncertainty continue
Tourism activities: Some cruises and excursions paused
Travellers caught mid-journey
337 tourists in one Pune group remain in Dubai after their return flight scheduled for Monday night was affected.
Vijay Jadhav, who owns a travel company in Pune, said:
“The situation here feels normal, and we are not panicking. It is important that rumours do not spread.”
Community support emerges
>> NRIs and residents have begun helping visitors.
>> 45 families and individuals contacted Dubai resident Rajive Keshup within hours after he offered assistance.
>> “We have one room available in our five-room villa and are offering it free with meals. We are also helping connect others with friends who can host them,” Keshup said.
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