Conflict Erupts; Middle Eastern Tourists in Bali Stay Longer in Luxury Hotels

Conflict between the United States (US)–Israel and Iran has led to thousands of flight cancellations, including routes from the Middle East to Bali and back. Tourists from Middle Eastern countries, including Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), cannot travel to Bali for the time being, and likewise Middle Eastern tourists who are in Bali cannot return to their countries. This situation forces Middle Eastern tourists in Bali to stay longer in Bali (overstay), as stated by I Gusti Agung Rai Suryawijaya (ARS), Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Bali, to Kompas.com on Wednesday 4 March 2026. “If they were supposed to depart yesterday, but because they are stranded, they end up overstaying. Some have overstayed,” he added. From the total number of foreign tourists in Bali, around seven percent are from Middle Eastern countries. They typically stay in Bali’s luxury four- to five-star hotels for a week with significant expenditure. “They are also, of course, well-behaved people and those who are wealthy who come here,” ARS said. European and Middle Eastern tourists affected by the conflict are advised to contact airlines directly to determine the latest departure schedules, as well as hotel compensation. Jovan, a Serbian national and Emirates passenger, said he remained calm despite his flight being delayed. Jovan chose to lengthen his holiday in Bali while waiting for a definite schedule. He also appreciated the airline for providing hotel accommodation as compensation. The Indonesian government has also taken part in the incident. Since 1 March 2026, the Directorate General of Immigration issued Director General of Immigration Letter No. IMI-GR.01.01-133 implementing a zero rupiah fee. “Usually overstays incur a Rp 1 million per day fine. Well, now it’s given for free while reporting that you are still stranded at Ngurah Rai International Airport Bali,” he said.