Croatian travellers stranded in Dubai after Middle East airspace closures

Escalating tensions in the Middle East have disrupted air travel across the region, leaving numerous passengers, including Croatian citizens, stranded in Dubai after flights were cancelled amid growing security concerns.

The situation intensified after the United States and Israel reportedly carried out deadly strikes on Iran, including targets in Tehran.

In response, Iran launched retaliatory attacks towards several Gulf locations, including Dubai, Bahrain and Qatar, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict.

Air travel has been heavily affected. As Večernji list reports, major airlines such as British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air have cancelled or rerouted flights to destinations across the Middle East due to security risks.

Both Iranian and Israeli airspace have been closed, forcing international carriers to divert routes away from the region. At the same time, flights from Dubai’s two major airports, Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, have also been disrupted.

The airline Qatar Airways temporarily suspended flights to Doha, while several carriers halted routes to destinations including Tel Aviv, Bahrain and Dubai.

Meanwhile, reports from Dubai indicated a fire breaking out at the iconic Burj Al Arab luxury hotel, adding to concerns as tensions escalated across the region.

Foreign ministries have urged caution. The UK government has advised British nationals in several Gulf states to seek safe shelter and closely monitor official guidance.

Among those affected are Croatian travellers. One Croatian citizen wrote on Reddit that he had been stuck in Dubai for several days after his scheduled flight was cancelled, Večernji list writes.

The post quickly drew responses from other users sharing advice and similar experiences. Some urged stranded passengers to remain calm, follow reliable news sources and prepare for a potentially extended stay until commercial flights resume.

Users also recommended contacting Croatian diplomatic missions so authorities can register citizens currently in the area, which could help coordinate evacuation flights if necessary.

Others noted that European Union citizens may benefit from joint evacuation efforts organised by EU member states.

Some commenters warned travellers to avoid posting photos of explosions or sharing precise locations on social media, as this could pose security risks.

While airlines stress that cancellations are primarily precautionary safety measures, uncertainty remains over when normal air travel across the region will resume.