Exiting the Middle East During the Current Travel Disruptions

No. Airline operations across several Gulf countries remain partially disrupted. Common disruptions include:

• Flight cancellations or delays
• Limited airline schedules
• Airspace restrictions across parts of the Gulf
• Re-routing of international flights

Passengers are advised to check directly with airlines before traveling to the airport.

Many travelers are attempting to exit the region using alternative departure points where flights are operating. Common routes include:

Travel to the UAE and depart internationally

Travelers are attempting to travel from Qatar or Bahrain to the UAE, and depart from:

• Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
• Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)

Flights from the UAE are gradually resuming, although operations remain limited.

Travel via Saudi Arabia

Some travelers are traveling to Saudi Arabia and departing from:

• Jeddah
• Riyadh
• Dammam

However, travellers must ensure they hold a valid Saudi visa or qualify for visa-on-arrival.

Yes, in some situations travellers are using land borders to reach airports in neighbouring countries. Examples include:

Qatar → Saudi Arabia

Travelers may cross through the Abu Samra land border and continue to Saudi airports.

Bahrain → Saudi Arabia

Travelers may use the King Fahd Causeway connecting Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. However, it should be noted that:

• Border conditions may change at short notice
• Entry visa requirements still apply
• Processing times may be longer due to security checks

Travelers should confirm with authorities before attempting land crossings

Travelers currently in the UAE are using several options:

Rebooked commercial flights

Airlines have begun operating limited commercial services, including:

• Etihad Airways
• Emirates
• Air India and Air India Express
• Other international carriers gradually resuming services

Ad-hoc or special flights

Some airlines are operating additional evacuation or ad-hoc flights to support travellers affected by cancellations.

Alternative routing

Passengers are sometimes departing via different international hubs, depending on available routes and open airspace. Travelers should ensure they have:

• Confirmed booking
• Valid travel documents
• Entry permission for destination country

Authorities in GCC countries are showing flexibility for travellers affected by the crisis. Possible measures include:

• Waiver of overstay penalties
• Temporary visa extensions
• Grace periods for travellers unable to depart

However, these measures may vary depending on the country and immigration authority, and travellers should confirm with local immigration authorities where possible.

In most cases, yes. Travelers entering another GCC country to catch a flight may require:

• Visa on arrival
• Transit visa
• Pre-approved visit visa

Visa eligibility depends on the traveller’s nationality and local immigration rules.

Before arranging travel, travellers should verify:

·         Passport validity (minimum 6 months recommended)

·         Visa eligibility for transit countries

·         Confirmed flight booking

·         Airline operational status

·         Land border accessibility (if applicable)

Travelers should avoid going to airports without confirmed bookings due to capacity limitations.

Yes. Many governments are currently:

• Issuing travel advisories
• Coordinating assisted departures
• Providing consular support for stranded nationals
• Advising citizens to register with embassies

Travelers should contact their embassy or consulate for the latest guidance.

    Organizations with mobile employees should consider the following measures:

• Monitor travel developments
• Regularly review airline updates and government announcements.
• Allow flexible travel arrangements
• Employees may need to depart via alternative countries or routes.
• Implement remote working
• Many GCC companies are temporarily implementing hybrid or remote work arrangements due to regional tensions.
• Plan alternative exit routes
• Where direct flights are unavailable, consider routing through:
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Other operational hubs
• Maintain communication with employees
• Ensure employees have access to emergency travel support and immigration guidance.

The situation remains highly fluid and dependent on regional security developments. Airline operations and immigration procedures may change with little notice, and travelers should remain prepared for:

• Sudden flight cancellations
• Temporary airspace closures
• Delays in visa processing

Employers and travelers are encouraged to closely monitor developments and seek immigration advice before arranging travel.