Flight operations across the Middle East have been halted since Saturday after the US and Israel launched an attack on Iran. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), the region’s largest travel hub, was the worst affected, with an estimated 20,000-plus passengers due to depart for various cities around the world at its eight international airports.
While flight cancellations and the looming threat of Iranian missiles and drones have many worried, stranded passengers are also applauding the UAE’s handling of the crisis.
An Indian is stranded in the United Arab Emirates
Tushar Gagerna, an Indian who was scheduled to fly to Delhi, recounted his experience in a LinkedIn post.
“I have been sitting in the airport waiting room for the last few hours. My flight to Delhi was scheduled for 1pm. We boarded. We waited. And at 3pm we were asked to disembark. Iran attacked the UAE,” he wrote.
“At that moment there was uncertainty on the plane. Quiet conversations. Phones lighting up with news alerts. That strange collective silence where no one knows what to say,” he said.
Dedicated waiting room, free refreshments
According to him, what followed was worth talking about.
“Within a short time after disembarking, a dedicated waiting room was set up for all disabled passengers. Organized. Calm. Clear communication,” he said.
Gagerna said the stranded passengers were given free refreshments, which he said was a simple gesture that said “we see you, you’re not stuck, we’ve got it”.
Emergency visas for tourists
He further noted that emergency visas for tourists are issued on the spot.
“Think about that for a moment. In the midst of a geopolitical crisis where airspace was closed and flights grounded – the UAE was actively making sure that visitors who had no plans to stay, who didn’t have a hotel reservation, who were just passing through – were legally covered, safe and documented. No chaos. No red tape. Instant humanity,” he said.
What separates world-class nations from rest
According to Gagerna, this is what separates world-class nations from others.
“It’s not just skyscrapers. It’s not just tax-free salaries. It’s not just safety records. It’s about how the country reacts under pressure,” he noted.
“When things go wrong – and in geopolitics they sometimes do – the UAE doesn’t drag itself out. It’s done. Quietly. Efficiently. With humanity. Most countries would leave travelers to the mercy of zero communication. The UAE set up a lounge and gave out refreshments. That’s the standard. And that’s why millions of us choose to call this place home, safe and grateful.”
