79 Korean tourists set to return; 330 still strained in Dubai
Dozens of South Korean tourists stranded in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates are expected to return home on Thursday. However, more than 300 others are still unable to find flights because of rising tensions in the Middle East and limited air travel in the region.
Some travelers have started returning home through different routes. Forty tourists from a Hanatour group left Dubai and will arrive in South Korea through Taipei, Taiwan. Another group of 39 travelers arranged by Modetour also flew to Taipei before taking another flight to Incheon.
Even after these groups return, more than 330 Korean tourists will still remain in Dubai without confirmed flights. These include about 110 customers from Hanatour, around 150 from Modetour, and about 70 from Yellow Balloon Tour.
The problem started after a direct Emirates flight from Dubai to Incheon was canceled on Wednesday. Travel companies are now trying to find other flight options. Dubai International Airport is currently operating only a limited number of flights.
The South Korean government is also considering solutions to help its citizens return home. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said the government may send chartered planes or even military transport aircraft if necessary. About 20,000 South Korean citizens are currently in more than 10 countries in the Middle East, including about 3,000 short-term visitors such as tourists and business travelers.
Edited using generative AI tools.
Source https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10687916 |
