Canadians Stranded as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Travel

The ongoing conflict involving Iran is leaving thousands of Canadians stranded across the Middle East, with widespread flight cancellations and limited options for return travel. As of Wednesday, March 5, 2026, Global Affairs Canada reports that over 106,000 Canadian citizens and permanent residents are registered in the Gulf region, a number that has been steadily increasing since Sunday [1].

Urgent Situations for Canadians Abroad

Many Canadians are facing urgent challenges while attempting to return home. Kimball and Ravi Sarin, for example, were scheduled to leave Sri Lanka on Saturday after a month-long vacation, but their flight was cancelled due to the travel chaos. They have faced repeated refusals at the airport while attempting to rebook [1]. Ravi Sarin’s situation is particularly critical, as he is running low on essential medication, with only a few days’ supply remaining [1].

Government Response and Evacuation Efforts

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand has stated that the government is working to secure options for Canadians to leave the region, including a “limited number” of chartered flights, block-booking seats on commercial flights, and ground transportation [1]. Chartered flights out of the United Arab Emirates are being explored within the next 72 hours, though a provider has not yet been confirmed [1].

For Canadians who have fled Iran, Global Affairs Canada is increasing personnel at consulates in bordering countries – Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Turkey, and Armenia – to provide visa assistance and support. Approximately a couple of dozen Canadians have been assisted in Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan each, with about half a dozen more receiving help in Turkey and Armenia [1].

Israel’s Ministry of Tourism is operating buses to the Menachem Begin border crossing between Eilat and Taba, Egypt, to assist with departures [1]. However, Global Affairs Canada is not currently offering assisted departures.

Challenges and Limited Consular Assistance

The situation is complicated by airspace closures across much of the Middle East. Officials acknowledge that options for getting people directly out of Iran are severely limited at this time [1]. Consular services in Iran are also significantly restricted, particularly during active conflict, and Canadians are advised not to rely on the government for evacuations or assisted departures [4]. Connectivity issues within Iran are also hindering communication and registration efforts [4].

Additional Reports

Stephen Lougheed of Queen’s University is with a group of students whose return from a field trip in Sri Lanka was interrupted by airspace closures in Qatar [1]. A Quebec woman reported being in almost constant contact with her sister, who is stranded in Qatar after a stopover during a trip from Thailand and Vietnam [1]. The Sarin brothers have booked another flight to Toronto through Hong Kong, with an estimated travel time of 35 hours, but remain cautious about potential further disruptions [1].

Canada’s Sanctions Against Iran

In February 2026, Canada amended the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations, listing seven individuals under Schedule 1 for activities that undermine international peace, security, or stability [2] and [3]. These measures include a dealings prohibition, freezing assets, and rendering listed individuals inadmissible to Canada [2] and [3].

Canadians in affected areas are encouraged to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive updates and information about departure options [4].