Norwegian Citizens Evacuated from Dubai Amid Regional Tensions

Norwegian citizens in the United Arab Emirates are being evacuated due to escalating regional tensions, with a chartered flight scheduled to depart from Muscat, Oman, on Sunday. The evacuation efforts are being coordinated by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with Norwegian airline, and are utilizing the Seamen’s Church in Dubai as a central gathering point.

Evacuation Process and Logistics

The evacuation process began with buses transporting Norwegian citizens from Dubai across the border to Muscat, Oman, on Saturday evening. The chartered flight has capacity for nearly 200 people. Initially, priority for seats was given to families with children, pregnant women, and individuals with medical needs, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs later opened up remaining seats to other Norwegian citizens NTB.

Seamen’s Church as a Hub

The Seamen’s Church in Dubai has become a crucial hub for stranded Norwegians, providing a meeting point and base of operations for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs team. Acting general manager Øivind Gundersen reported a high volume of inquiries and activity at the church NTB. During an information meeting held at the church on Friday, a missile alarm sounded, prompting attendees to take shelter.

Regional Instability and Air Traffic

The evacuation is taking place against a backdrop of heightened regional instability following attacks by Iran and retaliatory strikes. Air traffic in the Middle East has been significantly disrupted, though Dubai International Airport has remained partially open with limited departures operated by Emirates airline. The airport briefly closed on Saturday after a projectile was intercepted nearby, but operations partially resumed later in the day NTB.

Financial Considerations

A deductible of NOK 12,500 applies to all passengers on the chartered flight, with the exception of children under two years of age. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is allocating seats on a continuous basis through email contact.

Uncertainty and Ongoing Monitoring

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has cautioned that the flight schedule is subject to change. The situation remains fluid, and ongoing monitoring of regional developments is crucial.