Maldivian postpones Umrah flight to Jeddah due to Middle East unrest

Island Aviation Services Limited (IAS), operator of the national airline Maldivian, has postponed an Umrah flight scheduled to depart from Malé to Jeddah on Thursday due to security concerns and the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. The flight, planned in collaboration with the Hajj Corporation, was scheduled for Thursday, 29 October 2026. However, after assessing the regional situation, the flight has been postponed to a later date. In a press release issued Wednesday night, Island Aviation said it is closely monitoring security matters in the region, including Saudi Arabia, in connection with the ongoing unrest. The company noted that the situation has deteriorated significantly within the past 24 hours. Island Aviation said that according to its assessments, the current level of risk could endanger the safety and security of passengers. Additionally, some airlines have already suspended flights to Saudi Arabia, and obstacles have arisen in using Jeddah's airspace, as indicated by statements from international aviation authorities. Apologizing to travelers for the difficulties caused by the postponement, Island Aviation and the Hajj Corporation stated that passenger safety is always their highest priority and that both institutions will provide necessary assistance to those affected. Once stability is restored and flight safety is ensured, a new date will be communicated to passengers.