Seven Indian seafarers have returned to India after being stranded for 11 months aboard the oil-products tanker MV Sea Star 2, anchored at Mina Zayed Port in Abu Dhabi. The Indian Embassy in the UAE confirmed the repatriation of the seven crew members on August 26, 2026, and stated that it is actively coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safe and early return of the remaining crew.
- Seven Indian seafarers returned to India after 11 months stranded on MV Sea Star 2 at Mina Zayed Port in Abu Dhabi.
- Indian Embassy confirmed repatriation on August 26, 2026, and is coordinating for remaining crew.
- Federation of Seafarers Unions of India alleged remaining crew have unpaid wages and held travel documents.
The Federation of Seafarers Unions of India (FSUI) alleged that the crew had been stranded without relief for nearly 11 months.
The union further claimed that the remaining crew members have not received wages for the past five months and that previous payments were unfairly deducted to cover visa and travel expenses. Additionally, the FSUI alleged that critical travel documents were held by port authorities, complicating the crews efforts to leave the vessel. On August 25, the Indian Embassy in the UAE issued an update on X, affirming its ongoing efforts regarding the welfare and repatriation of the stranded seafarers. Prior to this, the FSUI had sought urgent intervention from the Ministry of External Affairs, the Directorate General of Shipping, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and the International Transport Workers Federation, specifically demanding payment of pending wages and immediate sign-off procedures.
The situation highlights challenges under the International Labour Organization (ILO) Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, which mandates standards for repatriation, medical care, and wage payments.
The Directorate General of Shipping advises that in cases of abandonment, seafarers should utilize P&I insurance mechanisms and engage with unions and diplomatic missions. The Indian government recommends that seafarers verify shipowner credentials, maintain copies of employment agreements, and report delays in salary or repatriation via the MADAD portal or to the nearest Indian mission.
