DUBLIN – Ireland is advising its citizens in Gulf states to shelter in place as tensions escalate across the Middle East following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack. Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee has urged the approximately 20,000 Irish nationals in the region to avoid all non-essential travel and refrain from attempting to depart via land routes. The situation is particularly concerning given that regional airports are experiencing closures and, in some cases, are under attack, complicating evacuation efforts.
The advice comes as Iran vowed to carry out its “most intense operation” ever in retaliation for the death of the 86-year-old Khamenei, raising fears of a wider conflict. McEntee emphasized the unique challenges posed by this crisis, noting the significant number of Irish citizens residing and transiting through the Gulf, particularly in the United Arab Emirates. “If you’re talking about those who are resident as well as those transiting through, you are talking about up to 20,000 [Irish people in the region],” she stated, adding that Ireland has a comparatively large number of citizens working and studying in the area.
Consular Assistance and Registration
The Department of Foreign Affairs has established a 24/7 consular line to provide assistance to Irish citizens in the Gulf. McEntee strongly encouraged all Irish nationals in the region to register with the department’s citizen registration platform. This registration will allow the department to maintain a comprehensive understanding of the location and contact information of Irish citizens, facilitating effective communication and support during the crisis. While many citizens, especially those in the UAE, have already registered, the minister stressed the importance of complete registration, including those on holiday or in transit.
Travel Disruption and Stranded Citizens
The current instability is causing significant disruption to air travel, with Dublin Airport reporting the cancellation of over 20 flights to and from the Middle East over the weekend. The daa, the operator of Dublin Airport, has indicated that further cancellations are expected, and Graeme McQueen of daa advised passengers to closely monitor airline communications and social media channels for updates. “It’s really challenging for people trying to receive through to airlines,” McQueen said, acknowledging the strain on call centers and online systems.
Among those affected is Patrick Lawson, a British citizen who has lived in Ireland for over twenty-five years. Lawson, a father of three from County Kerry, is currently stranded in Doha, Qatar, while en route home from visiting his sister in Australia. He reported difficulties reaching Qatar Airways and the Department of Foreign Affairs for assistance. “My family is trying to get a hold of Qatar, and we’ve been left on hold for hours at an end, and then the phone just hangs up,” Lawson said. He has registered with both the Irish and UK governments, receiving confirmation from the UK but, as of now, no response from Irish authorities.
Impact on Travel to Australia
The disruption to flights through the Middle East is expected to have broader implications for travel between Ireland and Australia, particularly as February marks the start of the high season for travel to Australia. Eoghan Corry, editor of Travel Extra, warned of “huge implications for connectivity, for Ireland and for connectivity from Europe” if airports remain closed for an extended period. He noted that alternative routes, such as through Istanbul, are limited due to a lack of direct connections to Australia. Corry emphasized the urgency of reopening major international airports in the region to prevent a growing number of displaced travelers.
Insurance and Travel Advice
The Irish Travel Agents Association is advising individuals with planned travel to the Middle East to immediately contact their travel agent and insurance provider. Association president Tom Randles explained that Department of Foreign Affairs advisories to “Avoid Essential Travel,” such as the current guidance for the UAE, often invalidate travel insurance coverage.
Minister McEntee has been in contact with Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, to express Ireland’s condolences for recent attacks in the UAE. “The UAE is an important and valued partner and many Irish people call the UAE home,” McEntee said, adding that the safety of Irish citizens in the region remains her “utmost priority.”
As of now, there are no recommended evacuation routes from Gulf countries, and the official advice remains to shelter in place. The Department of Foreign Affairs continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates via its consular line and social media platforms. The evolving security landscape underscores the importance of proactive registration and adherence to official guidance for Irish citizens in the region.
The situation remains fluid, and the Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to assess the evolving security situation in the Gulf. Irish citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and heed the advice of local authorities.
Please share this information with anyone you know who may be traveling or residing in the Gulf region. Your comments and questions are welcome below.
