In view of the unrest in the Middle East and Gulf region, the Government has launched a series of special operations to ensure the safety and welfare of foreign tourists currently in Sri Lanka, as well as to safeguard Sri Lankan migrant workers overseas.

These decisions were taken at a special discussion held yesterday (01) at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe and Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said.

Visa concessions and facilities for tourists

Considering the practical difficulties faced by tourists currently in the country, the Government has decided to grant a free two-week (14-day) extension of their visa validity.

It was also decided to formulate an urgent action plan, in coordination with relevant embassies through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to provide necessary facilities for tourists and to ensure their safety and well-being.

In light of airspace closures in several Middle Eastern countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with airlines, will explore the possibility of facilitating tourists’ return to their home countries through alternative flight routes.

Discussions will also be held with relevant stakeholders on alternative travel arrangements to ensure that prospective visitors can continue to travel to Sri Lanka without disruption.

Active operations centres

To support tourists and migrant workers, the Government has established 24-hour operational services through several state institutions.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has set up a special unit to assist tourists currently in the country. Any issues can be reported via its 1912 hotline.

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment has established a special operations centre to provide information and support to Sri Lankan migrant workers overseas, accessible through the 1989 hotline.

In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has coordinated with all Sri Lankan diplomatic missions in the Middle East and Gulf region to establish an integrated response mechanism. All missions, together with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment, remain on standby to respond promptly in emergencies and ensure the safety of Sri Lankan workers abroad.

It was further emphasised during the discussion that the Government has made all necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth operation of domestic transport for tourists and to take swift decisions based on evolving developments.