Private jet prices have surged as wealthy individuals scramble to leave Dubai following Iranian attacks on the emirate and the closure of its airport. Drones and missiles, fired in response to US and Israel strikes on Iran, damaged the airport and struck several hotels and landmarks, triggering a mass exodus among the city's billionaires and influencers.
The UAE defence ministry said it continued intercepting incoming missiles and drones on Monday, as the country closed its embassy in Tehran. Many have driven to Oman, a four-and-a-half-hour journey, where Muscat airport remains operational. However, most commercial flights from Muscat to Europe are fully booked until later this week, according to booking sites.
Private jet prices from Muscat have skyrocketed due to soaring demand and limited availability. JetVip, a Muscat-based brokerage, reported that a flight to Istanbul on a Nextant jet now costs about €85,000 (£74,000), roughly three times the usual rate. Seats on private charters to Moscow are going for about €20,000 per person. AlbaJet, an Austrian charter firm, offered flights to Europe for about €90,000, noting that many operators are unwilling to fly due to insurance and owner concerns.
Others have opted for the 10-hour drive to Riyadh, where private security companies have booked fleets of SUVs to ferry clients to the Saudi capital before arranging onward flights. Ameerh Naran, CEO of Vimana Private Jets, said flights from Riyadh to Europe now cost up to $350,000.
The disruption has sparked a political storm in Italy after Defence Minister Guido Crosetto flew home on an Italian government aircraft, leaving his family in Dubai. Critics accused him of being on holiday when the conflict began, prompting opposition calls for his resignation. Crosetto defended himself, saying he paid for the flight and is dealing with more serious matters.
For most tourists, the only option is to remain in Dubai. Hotels have been instructed not to evict stranded guests, but some Russian tourists complained online about being told to pay up or leave. Thousands of Western tourists are also confined to cruise ships off the coast, unable to disembark.
