Greece has drawn up an evacuation plan for around 1,500 nationals currently in the United Arab Emirates, as fighting in the Middle East disrupts regional airspace and leaves people stranded.
Speaking to state broadcaster ERT, Deputy Foreign Minister Giannis Loverdos said that approximately 1,500 Greeks are in the Emirates, particularly in Abu Dhabi, and that authorities are ready to act once airspace reopens. "We do not know how the war will evolve. We will see how we can help, while our first concern is the protection of our citizens," he said.
According to Loverdos, limited flights are currently operating from Oman, in contrast to Qatar and Dubai, where air traffic is more heavily affected. The number of Greek nationals who have formally requested repatriation stands at roughly 1,500, matching the estimated number present in the country.
The deputy minister stated that Athens has prepared an evacuation plan should conditions permit, and called on those currently in the region "to respect the instructions of the countries they are in". Loverdos clarified that the cost of care and support for stranded travellers has been covered by the countries where they are currently located.
