The escalating conflict following the US-Israeli military offensive against Iran on 28 February has severely impacted travel across the Middle East, with drone attacks reaching Cyprus, an EU member state. The Royal Air Force base in Cyprus was targeted, while airports and civilian areas in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have also been hit.
Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international travel, was closed for three days after drone debris caused damage, stranding hundreds of thousands of passengers. The luxury Fairmont The Palm hotel in Dubai was struck by a projectile, causing a fire. Dr John Rose, Chief Risk Advisor at ALTOUR, noted that the retaliation against the UAE was unexpected, as it was previously considered a safe travel destination.
Travel advisories have been escalated globally. The US State Department has urged American nationals to depart from 14 Middle Eastern nations, including Egypt. The UK government has begun flying British nationals out of Oman and will assist those leaving the UAE from 4 March. The US is sending charter flights to evacuate Americans from the UAE, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.
Iran's airspace remains closed, with all civilian travel to and from the country halted. Overland border crossings into Turkey and Armenia are open for those trying to leave. In the UAE, airports are slowly restarting operations, with Etihad Airways and Emirates resuming flights. The UAE government is covering food and accommodation for stranded travellers.
Qatar's Hamad International Airport remains closed due to airspace restrictions, with the US and UK issuing shelter-in-place advisories. Many travellers are driving from the UAE to Oman, where flights continue and the risk of attacks is lower. The situation remains fluid, with US President Trump expecting strikes to continue for several weeks.
