Thousands of Britons are trapped across the Gulf and wider Middle East after airspace closures followed strikes on Iran, with ministers scrambling to organise a way home. The Foreign Office has urged British nationals in the region to register their presence so they can receive updates and assistance.
Large parts of regional airspace were closed following the strikes, grounding flights and leaving travellers unable to depart major international hubs. British nationals are known to be in countries including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Israel where thousands of UK holidaymakers and business travellers are currently staying. Officials said work is ongoing with airlines and travel companies as they examine how passengers could be moved once restrictions ease. Officials say all options remain on the table, including organised evacuations if commercial flights cannot resume.
It is understood around three-quarters of the Britons who have registered are believed to be in the United Arab Emirates, with roughly 50,000 either on holiday or in transit through major airports.
Dubai International Airport - the world's busiest international travel hub - has halted flights until further notice following reported explosions nearby.
At least one person was killed and seven others were injured in an incident at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, while damage was also reported at Bahrain International Airport.
The number of Britons seeking help is expected to rise significantly in the coming days as more travellers contact officials.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has been working with officials over the weekend to coordinate the response.
The FCDO has advised British nationals to remain where they are, follow local authorities’ instructions and monitor official travel advice while the situation develops.
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Ministers are also examining contingency routes, including the possibility of moving citizens via neighbouring countries if airspace closures continue.
For now, travellers are being told to shelter in place and wait for further updates as efforts continue to establish when flights can safely resume.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has been working with officials over the weekend to coordinate the response.
The FCDO has advised British nationals to remain where they are, follow local authorities’ instructions and monitor official travel advice while the situation develops.
Ministers are also examining contingency routes, including the possibility of moving citizens via neighbouring countries if airspace closures continue.
For now, travellers are being told to shelter in place and wait for further updates as efforts continue to establish when flights can safely resume.
