South Korean Tourists Departing Middle East Amid Rising Tensions
Synopsis
As tensions escalate in the Middle East, South Korean tourists are beginning their return home. Travel agencies report organized flights for safe transit, while officials warn of potential impacts on exports amidst geopolitical crises.
Key Takeaways
Over 400 South Korean tourists were in Dubai amidst rising tensions.
Travel agencies are organizing flights for safe returns.
Concerns about export impacts due to geopolitical issues are rising.
The government is initiating a 100 trillion-won market stabilization program.
Tourists in Cairo and Amman are being assisted with alternative travel plans.
Seoul, March 5 (NationPress) Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, South Korean tourists are slowly making their way back home, according to sources in the travel industry released on Thursday.
As of Wednesday, over 400 travelers from prominent tour operators were in Dubai, with approximately 150 from Hana Tour, around 190 from Mode Tour, and about 70 from Yellow Balloon Tour, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Hana Tour confirmed that 40 individuals departed Dubai earlier today and are anticipated to reach South Korea later on Thursday. Additionally, Mode Tour has organized an alternative flight for 39 clients, who are also expected to arrive at Incheon International Airport later today.
Post-arrival, it is estimated that around 330 South Korean tourists will still be in Dubai. Tourists in other regions of the Middle East appear to be returning home without significant complications, according to the companies.
A representative from Hana Tour stated that its group of tourists currently in Cairo is returning home smoothly, while an official from Yellow Balloon Tour mentioned they are coordinating alternate flights for their clients in Cairo and Amman, Jordan, for later this week.
In a related development, a senior policymaker from the ruling Democratic Party (DP) on Thursday cautioned that South Korea's exports to the Middle East could face significant declines due to an expanding US-Israeli campaign against Iran. She indicated that preparations are underway to address a geopolitical crisis that could last longer than anticipated.
Rep. Han Jeoung-ae, chair of the National Assembly's policy committee, articulated these concerns during a meeting with DP lawmakers from relevant committees. She highlighted that the ongoing conflict could disrupt South Korean exports to key Middle Eastern nations, which amounted to nearly 200 trillion won (approximately US$136.7 billion) last year.
"We cannot overlook the potential for delays or cancellations of projects in the Middle East valued at around 100 trillion won, which our companies have developed as vital growth drivers, including smart cities, nuclear energy facilities, and AI data centers," she remarked.
Han also noted that the government is preparing a market stabilization initiative worth 100 trillion won in response to increasing geopolitical risks following US-Israeli strikes on Iran last week.
Point of View
The situation reflects a complex interplay between tourism safety and economic implications. While the immediate concern is the safe return of citizens, the potential long-term impact on exports and international relations cannot be overlooked.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many South Korean tourists are still in Dubai?
Approximately 330 South Korean tourists are expected to remain in Dubai after several have returned home.
What measures are being taken for tourists in Cairo?
Tour operators are arranging alternative flights for customers in Cairo and Amman, Jordan.
What is the economic impact of the tensions?
There are concerns that ongoing conflicts could significantly disrupt South Korean exports to the Middle East, valued at around 200 trillion won.
How is the South Korean government responding?
The government is preparing a market stabilization program worth 100 trillion won in response to the geopolitical crisis.
Which travel agencies are involved?
The major travel agencies involved include Hana Tour, Mode Tour, and Yellow Balloon Tour.
