A total of 75 Maldivian students are currently studying in Middle Eastern countries, according to the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development.

Speaking at a press briefing held by a special Cabinet committee established by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to assess the potential impacts of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Minister Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed said the Government has been maintaining contact with students since the start of the conflict.

The minister said advisories issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been shared with the students via email, and they have also been requested to register with the nearest Maldivian diplomatic missions.

According to the ministry, Maldivian students are currently studying in five countries in the region. The largest number of students are in Egypt with 40 students, followed by 21 students in the United Arab Emirates, 10 students in Türkiye, and two students in Saudi Arabia. The ministry also noted that two students are studying independently in Egypt.

Minister Dr Haidar said the ministry has established a dedicated helpline to communicate directly with students and provide assistance if required.

The minister added that arrangements have also been made to ensure that students will be able to resume their studies without penalties if universities suspend classes due to the conflict. He noted that some students have expressed interest in returning to the Maldives due to university holidays, and efforts are underway to facilitate their return if necessary.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu formed a special ministerial committee on 28 February 2026 to monitor developments related to the conflict and address challenges faced by Maldivians in the region.