Victoria, Mahé – As escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iranian forces has forced the closure of four of the Gulf region’s most critical aviation hubs — Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi (Etihad), and Bahrain— the Indian Ocean island nation of Seychelles has emerged as a global example of resilience, flexibility, and swift tourism crisis management.
With major connecting airports disrupted, including those served by Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Gulf-based regional operators, thousands of international travelers worldwide are facing sudden cancellations and uncertainty. Governments and tour operators are scrambling to repatriate stranded citizens as global flight networks adjust to the rapidly evolving situation.
Seychelles Responds Within Hours
In a move widely praised by international tourism stakeholders, the Seychelles Ministry of Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation, and other key local partners, in cooperation with the national carrier Air Seychelles , have organized emergency charter flights to assist visitors currently in the country who were scheduled to return home via Gulf carriers.
Two special charter services have been arranged:
- Seychelles (SEZ) – Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
- Seychelles (SEZ) – Prague
Passengers originally booked on Emirates or Qatar Airways who are seeking immediate repatriation are invited to register before 6:00 PM local time todayvia the official registration link provided by Destination Seychelles:
Tuesday 03 March 2026 from Seychelles to Paris (CDG) @ 0930 hrs
Thursday 05 March 2026 from Seychelles to Prague (PRG) @ 0930 hrs
We invite affected passengers to register their interest by filling the below form.
Further details, including routing and fares, will be shared once finalised.
This registration is an expression of interest only and does not constitute a confirmed booking.
Air Seychelles remains dedicated to keeping our passengers moving and supported during this evolving situation.
Thank you for your continued trust and cooperation.
Disclaimer: By submitting this form, you consent for us to contact you in relation to this matter.
Flights are scheduled to depart tomorrow.
Turning Crisis into Confidence
While many global destinations are grappling with logistical paralysis, Seychelles has demonstrated the advantages of being a diversified and well-connected tourism hub. The archipelago maintains multiple direct air links to Europe, Africa, and Asia through airlines not affected by the current Gulf airspace disruptions.
Officials emphasized that the safety and well-being of visitors remain the highest priority. Travelers currently in Seychelles continue to enjoy stable infrastructure, secure conditions, and the comfort of one of the world’s most renowned island destinations.
“It’s not the worst place in the world to be temporarily delayed,” remarked a local hospitality executive. “But we understand that people need certainty. That’s why we acted immediately.”
A Model for Tourism Crisis Management
Tourism-dependent economies worldwide are closely watching how destinations respond to global instability. Seychelles’ rapid coordination between government authorities, tourism stakeholders, and its national airline illustrates how agility and collaboration can protect both visitors and the destination’s reputation.
Industry observers say the initiative may set a new benchmark for small island states facing global disruptions.
A Reliable, Safe Haven in Uncertain Times
Despite the turbulence affecting Gulf aviation corridors, Seychelles remains fully operational, welcoming, and accessible through alternative routes. With its pristine beaches, political stability, and established safety record, the destination continues to offer travelers what many are seeking during uncertain times: distance from global stress, reliability in operations, and peace of mind.
As the world watches events unfold, Seychelles has positioned itself not just as a tropical paradise — but as a responsible global tourism leader prepared to act decisively when it matters most.
For further updates, travelers are advised to contact their airlines, tour operators, or Tourism Seychelles directly.
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