Irish Citizens Seek Consular Assistance Amidst Middle East Crisis
The Department of Foreign Affairs has seen a significant increase in requests for consular assistance from Irish citizens across the Middle East and beyond, driven by the ongoing conflict in the region. As of March 23, 2026, the Department has provided assistance to 3,011 Irish citizens this year, compared to 2,099 for all of last year – marking the largest consular response since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Surge in Assistance Requests
The escalation between Iran and Israel in June 2025 prompted a crisis response, with citizens assisted in departing from both countries. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been a focal point, with consular assistance provided in 2,289 cases this year, a substantial rise from 54 cases last year. This assistance extends to residents in Dubai and other parts of the UAE.
Regional Breakdown of Consular Support
Beyond the UAE, Irish embassies in other Gulf region countries have also seen increased demand for consular services:
- Egypt: 21 cases
- Saudi Arabia: 9 cases
- Thailand: 132 requests in 2026, up from 83 last year, linked to flight restrictions.
- Philippines: 38 requests this year, more than double the 18 requests last year.
- Sydney, Australia: 56 requests this year, primarily from citizens with flights routed through the UAE.
- Tel Aviv, Israel: 76 Irish citizens sought assistance in 2025, with one request so far this year.
- Tehran, Iran: Assistance provided to 37 citizens last year and 24 to date in 2026.
- New Delhi, India: 67 Irish citizens received help this year, compared to 5 requests in 2025.
Support for Citizens in Gaza
The Department of Foreign Affairs also provided assistance to 20 Irish citizens detained following their participation in flotilla sailings to Gaza in 2025, ensuring their safe return. Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee highlighted that over 2,300 citizens in the Gulf region and beyond have received direct consular assistance, with broader guidance provided to thousands more through travel advice and proactive messaging.
Increased Demand in Europe
Outside of the Middle East, increased consular requests were also noted in popular European destinations:
- Spain (Madrid): 427 requests last year
- London, UK: 201 requests
- Lisbon, Portugal: 103 cases
Department Resources and Contact Information
The Department of Foreign Affairs is currently handling a high volume of calls. Irish citizens with queries or concerns can contact the consular team in Dublin at +353 1 4082000. Citizens are encouraged to register their presence in the region online at https://citizensregistration.dfa.ie/. As of March 1, 2026, a large number of Irish citizens, particularly in the UAE, were already registered on the platform, with several hundred registering the previous day. The Department continues to monitor the security situation in the Gulf and Middle East closely and offers consular assistance through its Consular Crisis Team and Embassies across the region. Travel advice currently advises against all travel to Israel, Iraq, Iran and Lebanon.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has provided consular assistance to 5,110 Irish citizens over the past 15 months.