UK’s Dubai evacuation plan as 76,000 Brits stranded in Middle East | World | News
Thousands of Britons have been stranded in the Gulf and Middle East as airspace closures followed attacks on Iran and ministers scrambled to arrange their way home. The Foreign Office has asked British nationals in the region to register their presence so they can receive updates and assistance.
Following the strikes, much of regional airspace was closed, flights were grounded and passengers were unable to leave major international hubs. British citizens are known to be in countries where thousands of British holidaymakers and business travelers are currently staying, such as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Israel. Work is ongoing with airlines and travel companies to examine how passengers can be moved once restrictions are eased, officials said. Officials say all options remain on the table, including organized evacuations if commercial flights cannot resume.
Around three-quarters of Britons who registered are believed to be in the United Arab Emirates; Approximately 50,000 people are either on holiday or in transit through major airports.
Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest international travel hub, has suspended flights until further notice following recent reported explosions.
At least one person died and seven people were injured in the incident that took place at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, and damage was reported at Bahrain International Airport.
The number of Britons seeking help is expected to rise significantly in the coming days as more travelers contact authorities.
Foreign Affairs Minister Yvette Cooper has been working with authorities over the weekend to coordinate the response.
The FCDO has advised British citizens to stay put, follow instructions from local authorities and follow official travel advice as the situation evolves.
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Ministers are also examining contingency routes, including the possibility of citizens moving through neighboring countries if the airspace closure continues.
For now, passengers are being told to stay seated and await further updates as efforts continue to determine when flights can safely resume.
Foreign Affairs Minister Yvette Cooper has been working with authorities over the weekend to coordinate the response.
The FCDO has advised British citizens to stay put, follow instructions from local authorities and follow official travel advice as the situation evolves.
Ministers are also examining contingency routes, including the possibility of citizens moving through neighboring countries if the airspace closure continues.
For now, passengers are being told to stay seated and await further updates as efforts continue to determine when flights can safely resume.
