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Stranded Cypriot Citizens in UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain – Efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Published March 3, 2026, 14:10
Stranded Cypriot Citizens in UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain – Efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East following the US and Israeli attacks on Iran, facing a difficult situation that requires organization, patience, and cooperation. Diplomatic contacts with EU member states, institutions, and third countries are ongoing, while continuous analysis of data and assessment of developments are being carried out. The activation of an EU solidarity clause is not currently being considered, with processes evolving at a bilateral level. The largest number of Cypriot citizens in the region are located in the United Arab Emirates. In Abu Dhabi, the accommodation of Cypriot citizens is covered by the emirate at no cost, while in Dubai, a process of compensating bookings and utilizing financial resources of the Republic is being followed. There is also a group of Cypriots on a cruise ship in Qatar and a small group in Bahrain, for whom efforts are being made to transfer them to an airport in Saudi Arabia and then to Cyprus. The repatriation efforts are at an advanced stage, but depend on the situation of the airspace and airports. There is no new information regarding the ESTIA Plan, however, contacts are being explored, provided that airspaces are open. The situation remains difficult and requires continuous effort, organization, and analysis.