Middle East travel: Vietnamese tourists on edge amidst escalating conflict tensions.
Escalating conflict in the Middle East has led to the cancellation or diversion of numerous international flights, directly impacting the travel plans of Vietnamese tourists in the region.
The tense situation in the Middle East is causing significant disruptions to the international aviation and tourism industries. Many Vietnamese tourists currently in the region have expressed concerns about sudden schedule changes and a lack of security.
A firsthand experience for tourists in war zones.
Mr. Doan Phuoc Truong (Ho Chi Minh City) had just completed a flight from Moscow to Vietnam, with a layover in Dubai right before the attacks took place. According to Mr. Truong, anxiety permeated the entire journey as the plane passed through sensitive airspace. "Everyone was constantly updating themselves on the news and praying for a safe landing," he shared.
Meanwhile, travel blogger Ly Thanh Co, who was exploring Jordan with friends, faced a similar situation. In the Wadi Rum desert, he observed the constant appearance of fighter jets in the sky. Airlines announced flight delays, while many flights to Dubai and Qatar were canceled en masse.
Tour operators have temporarily suspended tours to ensure safety.
Given the complex situation, many travel companies in Vietnam have proactively adjusted their departure plans. Vietworld Travel announced the temporary suspension of tours to Jordan and Egypt in early March. Fit Tour also postponed its cherry blossom tour to Pakistan, scheduled to depart on March 27, due to escalating tensions.
Starting February 28th, airspace in many countries, including Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, Iran, Israel, and Iraq, has been closed or restricted, causing a ripple effect on global flight networks.
Important recommendation from the Department of Foreign Affairs
The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a notice advising citizens not to travel to Iran, Israel, and neighboring affected areas unless absolutely necessary. For citizens already in these areas, the Vietnamese Embassy in Israel requests:
- Strictly adhere to the security regulations and guidelines of the local authorities.
- Minimize travel between cities and prioritize staying near areas with bomb shelters.
- Regularly update yourself on information within Vietnamese communities and groups, and stay in contact with the Embassy via the citizen protection hotline.
- Proactively make plans to travel to a third country or return home when authorities permit.
