Indian nationals strongly advised to avoid travel to Iran until further notice: MEA

Amid intensifying nationwide protests in Iran and a sharp deterioration in internal security, the Ministry of External Affairs ( MEA ) on Wednesday strongly advised Indian citizens to avoid all travel to the Islamic Republic until further notice. The advisory highlights rising risks for foreign travellers as unrest spreads and normal life is disrupted.

The MEA’s warning comes as large‑scale demonstrations, initially triggered by record inflation and the rapid fall of the Iranian rial , have grown into widespread unrest across all provinces. Security forces have been deployed to suppress protests, which have resulted in significant casualties and mass arrests. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has urged Indian students, pilgrims, business travellers, and tourists to depart Iran at the earliest by available commercial means, stay away from protest areas, and remain in regular contact with embassy officials.

The unrest and related security concerns have also dealt a heavy blow to international aviation. Over the first weekend after protests escalated, at least 46 flights to and from Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport were cancelled, with additional cancellations reported at Mashhad’s Shahid Hasheminejad Airport. These disruptions primarily affected routes connecting Iran with major regional hubs including Dubai , Doha, and Istanbul. Major carriers such as flydubai , Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AJet halted services to Iranian destinations amid the unrest and intermittent communication blackouts. Flydubai alone cancelled nearly 20 flights between Dubai and cities such as Tehran, Shiraz, and Mashhad, while Turkish Airlines cancelled 17 scheduled flights to Iranian cities including Tehran, Mashhad, and Tabriz over recent days. Several other Gulf and Middle Eastern carriers also suspended services, citing safety concerns and evolving ground conditions.

These cancellations have inflicted financial strain on airlines and disrupted travel plans for thousands of passengers. Carriers must provide refunds or rebooking options for affected travellers, absorb rerouting and operational costs, and face lost revenue from passenger fares and cargo. Tourism and hospitality sectors linked to inbound travel to Iran are also feeling the impact. Industry analysts warn that if unrest persists, broader economic losses could mount, especially as regional airspace restrictions, communication blackouts, and safety fears deter normal airline operations.

India’s travel advisory underscores growing international concern over the situation in Iran and its ripple effects on transportation, safety, and economic connectivity. Indian nationals abroad have been asked to remain vigilant, register with the embassy, and follow updates amid unfolding developments in the region.