DUBAI – Emirates, and other UAE based airlines banned Iranian nationals from flights as authorities canceled residency and tourist visas for those abroad. Many Iranians returning from trips or work have been stranded, unable to re-enter the country. The move comes amid rising regional tensions and repeated missile and drone attacks, leaving thousands of residents suddenly facing uncertainty and disruption.
United Arab Emirates imposed sweeping restrictions on Iranian nationals, banning them from entering or transiting through the country on Emirates, Etihad Airways, and flydubai flights, as Iran’s missile and drone attacks on US assets in Gulf states intensify. Holders of the UAE “Golden Visa” remain exempt, but authorities have offered no official explanation for the sweeping travel ban.
In a dramatic escalation, UAE authorities shuttered Iranian-linked institutions, including the Iranian Hospital, the Iranian Club, and multiple schools, while recalling its ambassador from Tehran and severing diplomatic ties. An estimated 400,000–500,000 Iranians reside in the UAE.
Meanwhile, residency and tourist visas for Iranian nationals abroad have been canceled, leaving many stranded. Those affected include holders of “Golden Visas” and staff connected to Iranian institutions, many being repatriated to Iran via Afghanistan.
The crackdown comes amid rising regional tensions after Iranian attacks in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes. UAE leaders, including President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, have openly condemned Iran, branding it an enemy and a terrorist state, signaling a no-tolerance approach to Tehran’s escalating aggression.
UAE has reported unprecedented air defense activity, intercepting 16 ballistic missiles and 42 drones in a single day. Since the conflict erupted, Emirati forces have engaged 414 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,914 drones, leaving 11 dead and 178 injured. Explosions from intercepted attacks rattled Dubai, while drone debris killed a civilian in Al-Fujairah after striking a farm.
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