Ireland Activates Charter Flight Plan to Evacuate Vulnerable Citizens from UAE

The Irish Government has activated plans for an assisted departure for vulnerable Irish citizens currently in the United Arab Emirates, as conflict continues to affect the region.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee has directed the Department's Consular Crisis team to finalise arrangements for a first Government of Ireland charter flight, which will depart from Oman Airport in the coming days, subject to security and operational conditions.

The initial flight will prioritise Irish citizens in the UAE who are non-resident and most in need of urgent assistance.

Minister McEntee said:

"I am highly aware of the large numbers of Irish citizens in the UAE as the current conflict continues. In this context, I asked our Consular Crisis team today to activate plans for an assisted departure."

She added:

"This first charter flight will be targeted at Irish citizens currently in UAE, particularly those who are non-resident, and who are vulnerable and require assistance most urgently."

Citizens requiring the most help will be contacted directly by the Department of Foreign Affairs in the coming days. Minister McEntee has asked for patience from the public as the most vulnerable are prioritised in this first phase.

The Government has urged all Irish citizens remaining in the region to register with the appropriate Irish Embassy if they have not already done so, and to monitor Embassy social media accounts for the latest updates. Consular assistance will continue to be provided to all citizens in the region throughout the ongoing crisis.