In an unexpected turn of events, 84 MBA students from Indira School of Business Studies (ISBS) in Pune remain stranded in Dubai after flights were halted amid increasing tensions in the Middle East. The students were in Dubai for a five-day academic study tour and were scheduled to return to Pune on either February 28 or March 1, 2026. However, due to the abrupt closure of airspace, their travel plans have been disrupted.

Institute Officials Ensure Student Safety

Prof. Dr. Janardan Pawar, the Dean of the School of Information Technology at Indira University, confirmed that all students are safe and currently relocated to a hotel. He reiterated that the institution is actively engaged in coordinating with relevant authorities to facilitate their return. “A total of 84 students went in two batches as part of our global programme for academic exposure,” explained Prof. Pawar.

Coordinated Efforts with Government Authorities

Tarita Shankar, Chairperson of the Indira Group of Institutes, assured that they are maintaining constant communication with the stranded students and their families. “We are in touch with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to expedite the students’ return as soon as possible,” Shankar stated. The institute has also been keeping parents updated about their children’s wellbeing and ongoing support.

Disruption Due to Regional Conflict

The situation escalated following significant developments in the region. Reports from Iranian state media indicated that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in an attack attributed to Israel and the United States. This incident heightened tensions, leading to widespread flight cancellations and interruptions across the Middle East, affecting not only local travellers but also international students.

Next Steps and Further Communications Awaited

Institute officials are currently awaiting further guidance from both Indian authorities and aviation regulators regarding the ongoing situation. With conditions changing rapidly, the timeline for the students’ return is not yet clear. However, families have been reassured that all students are safe, staying in a hotel, and are in constant communication with institute representatives.

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