Exorbitant costs leave Malaysians in Qatar scrambling to return home

 

Malaysians in Qatar are facing mounting uncertainty and soaring travel costs as they try to return home amid escalating tensions following recent US–Israeli strikes in Iran. - NSTP/AIZUDDIN SAAD

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians in Qatar are facing mounting uncertainty and soaring travel costs as they try to return home amid escalating tensions following recent US–Israeli strikes in Iran.

Limited flights and disrupted airspace have forced many to take convoluted routes through neighbouring countries.

Athira Zaini, 35, who has been living in Qatar for four years with her two children, described the situation as "stressful and costly."

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"Before the airspace reopened, some Malaysians were already leaving via Saudi Arabia," she said.

"They rent drivers to reach Dammam, then fly to Jeddah before finally heading to Kuala Lumpur. People are still doing it."

However, Athira said she does not want to take the overland route herself.

"For now, no. It's a hassle, and it's going to take a while just to get back. To be honest, I'm not sure — unless I'm really desperate, then I might consider it."

The logistics come at a high price.

Athira Zaini, 35, who has been living in Qatar for four years with her two children, described the situation as “stressful and costly.” - Courtesy pic

Athira said that some (per family) have spent up to 20,000 Qatari riyals (approximately RM21,500) for economy-class travel, including taxis and flights.

While there are Malaysians in Qatar who have received calls from Malaysian authorities about evacuation arrangements, Athira said the process is slow, and she herself only recently submitted her evacuation form.

"I'm waiting until my husband (who is also based in Qatar) goes on leave before planning anything," she said.

"I just want to go home."

The Malaysian embassy, in a latest reply to Athira's request said it is monitoring the situation closely and that evacuation arrangements are being conducted in stages.

It said priority is being given to Malaysians who are stranded and require urgent assistance, adding that those listed for subsequent evacuation movements would be contacted directly.

Meanwhile, some Malaysians have already returned safely. Around 163 Malaysians arrived in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, reunited with family members and expressing relief at a smooth evacuation process.

The special evacuation flight by Malaysian Airlines also brought five Thai nationals, an Indonesian and a Moroccan in the flight that landed at about 12.45pm.

Limited flights and disrupted airspace have forced many to take convoluted routes through neighbouring countries. - BERNAMA pic

- NST