Navigating Tensions: Singaporean Students' Commitment to Studies in the Middle East

As the Middle East grapples with an unprecedented escalation in regional conflict that began on February 28, 2026, with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran followed by Iranian retaliatory actions across Gulf states, over 40 Singaporean students enrolled in universities there have chosen to remain despite daily air raid sirens and falling debris from intercepted missiles. These students, primarily pursuing degrees in Islamic studies and jurisprudence, demonstrate remarkable resilience, prioritizing their academic progress amid uncertainty.

Their decision reflects not only personal determination but also the adaptability of host institutions and robust support from Singaporean authorities. With minimal disruptions to coursework—thanks to swift shifts to remote learning—this episode underscores the evolving landscape of international student mobility for Singaporeans, particularly in religious higher education.

The Rapid Escalation: A Timeline of Conflict Impacting Campuses

The conflict ignited on February 28, 2026, when U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on key Iranian targets, prompting Iran to retaliate against Bahrain, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Airspace closures and flight cancellations stranded thousands, including Singaporeans. By March 5, sirens echoed 3-4 times daily in areas like Irbid, Jordan, more frequently than during prior Israel-Palestine tensions.

Universities responded immediately: Kuwait University moved all lectures online, while others in Saudi Arabia and Jordan maintained operations with enhanced safety protocols. Over 2,500 Israeli strikes involving more than 6,000 weapons were reported, yet student life persisted with shops open and traffic flowing, albeit under a cloud of vigilance.

This timeline highlights how geopolitical shocks now directly intersect with global higher education, forcing institutions to balance safety and continuity.

Who Are These Students? Profiles and Motivations for Middle East Study

Historical data indicates around 500 Singaporeans study in Middle Eastern universities, drawn to specialized programs in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh, the scholarly interpretation of Islamic law from Quran and Sunnah) and related fields unavailable locally at the same depth. Key destinations include the Islamic University of Madinah in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait University, Yarmouk University in Irbid, Jordan, and institutions in Egypt like Al-Azhar.

• Ms. Siti Fatimah Abdul Rashid, 22, arrived in Irbid, Jordan, in 2023 for a Fiqh degree, relying on local government alerts for safety.
• Mr. Zaid Ghazali, 26, has been in the region since 2022, now at Islamic University of Madinah, combating family worries from AI-generated misinformation.
• Mr. Jaabir Kamal, 22, at Kuwait University since 2017, nears graduation and credits constant Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) check-ins.

These students, often supported by scholarships and family, embody Singapore's multicultural commitment to religious scholarship abroad.

University Responses: From Campus Closures to Seamless Online Transitions

Middle Eastern universities, including branch campuses like NYU Abu Dhabi and Georgetown University in Qatar, swiftly suspended in-person classes, shifting to virtual platforms. Kuwait University's full pivot ensured continuity for Fiqh lectures, while Madinah's institution maintained minimal interruptions.

This adaptability mirrors global trends: during COVID-19, many honed hybrid models. For Singaporeans, it means exams and theses proceed, though with added stress from unreliable internet during blackouts.Times Higher Education reports widespread online shifts.

Stakeholders praise these measures, but experts note long-term risks to research collaborations and campus vibrancy.

Life Under Sirens: Safety Protocols and Emotional Toll

Daily routines now include sheltering during sirens—lasting minutes but occurring frequently. In Irbid, debris from downed missiles fell nearby, yet students like Ms. Siti report normalcy: "The government sends announcements, so I know it's safe."

Emotional challenges include family anxiety fueled by viral fakes, countered by regular updates. Peer networks, like IMAM SG in Saudi Arabia, foster solidarity, sharing tips on bunkers and supplies.

Psychological resilience training from Singapore unis could enhance preparedness, as studies show study-abroad stressors amplify during crises.

Photo by AMONWAT DUMKRUT on Unsplash

Reasons for Staying: Academic Milestones Over Immediate Flight

Nearing graduation tops reasons: Mr. Jaabir risks restarting if flights resume unpredictably. Families urge focus: "Stay, seek shelter, study," as one parent advised. Optimism for de-escalation, backed by diplomatic hopes, prevails.

This calculus weighs opportunity costs—delayed degrees disrupt careers in Singapore's religious sector, where Madinah alumni often lead mosques or councils.

Government Lifeline: MFA and Faishal Ibrahim's Direct Engagement

Acting Minister Faishal Ibrahim video-called over 40 students on March 5, 2026, confirming safety and minimal study disruptions. "Their welfare is our priority," he stated, urging MFA survey responses for evacuation.

MFA's February 28 advisory defers travel to the region, with 24/7 duty lines (+65 6379 8800) and eRegistration. Repatriation flights from Oman brought back 81 Singaporeans, including 42 students by March 13.Full MFA statement here.

MUIS's Pivotal Role: Liaison Officers and Community Support

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) deploys officers in Cairo and Jeddah, coordinating with MFA for welfare checks in Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. Their updates reassure families, emphasizing vigilance.

MUIS bridges cultural gaps, offering counseling and fostering alumni networks that aid integration upon return.

Repatriation Successes: Stories of Safe Returns

Not all stayed: 42 Jordan-based students flew back via Saudi Arabia flights, greeted by Minister Faishal. Challenges included packed bags and uncertain futures, but relief dominated. "Profound relief," MUIS posted.

These efforts highlight Singapore's consular prowess, processing surveys swiftly amid chaos.

Implications for Singapore's Higher Education Mobility

With thousands outbound annually—Singapore ranks high in mobility rates—this tests frameworks. Universities like NUS and NTU emphasize risk assessments; future policies may mandate crisis simulations.

Positive: Builds global-savvy graduates. Negative: Potential dip in ME enrollments, boosting local options like Singapore College of Islamic Studies.

Photo by Vincent Chan on Unsplash

Essential Safety Insights for Prospective Study-Abroad Students

• Enroll with MFA eRegistration before departure.
• Purchase comprehensive insurance covering geopolitical risks.
• Join student associations for peer support.
• Monitor local alerts via apps; prepare go-bags.
• Maintain family communication protocols.

Experts recommend pre-departure briefings on Fiqh-specific hubs.

Outlook: Resilience, Diplomacy, and Academic Futures

Students hope for Eid-celebrating peace, eyeing diplomatic breakthroughs. Their perseverance inspires, positioning Singapore as a hub for resilient global scholars. As conflict evolves, monitoring continues, but their focus endures.

For deeper reading, CNA's full coverage.