Maltese companies with operations in the Middle East are closely monitoring developments in the region following the latest geopolitical tensions, with some implementing precautionary measures and travel operators reporting increased enquiries from concerned clients.
A spokesperson for Kore Group, whose companies Healthmark and ProKore maintain a presence in the United Arab Emirates, tells WhosWho.mt the situation is being reviewed on a daily basis while the company follows guidance issued by local authorities.
Training at the Healthmark offices
The Kore Group is a Maltese company specialising in health, social care and contract catering, serving more than 9,000 meals daily to hospitals, nursing homes and airlines. The group operates the largest private healthcare service in Malta, providing home care services with over 25,000 weekly visits, staff outsourcing and residential care management via its Healthmark acedemy. It also delivers professional training through academies based in Malta and Dubai.
The spokesperson explained that authorities in the UAE continue to issue regular updates which the companies are following closely.
“As a precautionary measure, activities at the training centre have been limited to essential onsite services, while most operations are currently being conducted remotely. Work-from-home arrangements have been implemented as widely as possible to minimise the need for physical presence,” they added.
The company said the situation remains under constant review and that additional measures could be taken if necessary.
The spokesperson also noted that none of the company’s Maltese employees are currently based in the UAE.
Meanwhile, Malta-based travel agency ROCS said it has observed increased concern among travellers following the developments in the Middle East.
ROCS CEO Colin Aquilina tells WhosWho.mt that the company has been closely monitoring the situation since the early stages of the tensions.
“In light of the recent geopolitical developments in the Middle East, we fully understand that there is heightened sensitivity across the travel sector. During times like these, what matters most is calm leadership, clear communication, and responsible decision-making.”
Mr Aquilina noted that the company maintains a physical presence in Dubai through its Eeetwell outlet at Dubai Mall and receives direct updates from staff working there, “who continue to report to work each day, maintaining operations with dedication while looking forward to a return to peace and tranquillity. Based on their direct feedback, the current situation is being described as relatively calm.”
However, he said the tensions have prompted a rise in enquiries from clients seeking reassurance about travel plans: “we remain in constant communication with airlines, ground partners, and international operators to ensure we are aligned with official guidance.”
According to Mr Aquilina, the company has also received requests from clients seeking to amend or postpone travel arrangements.
“We have received a number of requests for amendments and postponements. In addressing these, we are guided by the official positions and directives issued by the UAE authorities and Emirates Airlines in relation to already issued tickets, while proposing alternative arrangements to clients in accordance with the applicable travel legislation. In certain cases, we are also adopting a proactive approach by restructuring travel itineraries and reorganising arrangements in advance, with the primary objective of safeguarding our clients’ safety and peace of mind. All upcoming departures continue to be carefully assessed to ensure that no client is exposed to avoidable risk.”
While bookings to destinations within the region have slowed, Mr Aquilina said interest in travel more broadly remains strong.
“Naturally, bookings to destinations within the region have slowed. However, the desire to travel has not diminished. Clients continue to book other destinations and, in some cases, are rerouting beyond the Middle East by choosing alternative hubs. As we have seen in previous global situations, travel patterns adapt and evolve. While safety remains our priority, we are confident that once stability returns, the region will recover as it has done before.”
He added that the company has expanded its support structure to assist clients and travellers who may be affected.
Reflecting on the broader context, Mr Aquilina said the travel industry has faced challenging situations before and remains prepared to navigate the current period.
“ROCS has navigated challenging periods before, from economic downturns to industry shocks and global pandemics. With more than 50 years of experience, we remain structured, prepared, and financially stable to manage this period responsibly.”
“Difficult times do not define organisations, their response does,” he adds.
He concludes by saying that any client or traveller who may wish to contact him personally may do so at [email protected].
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