Emirates airline says Iranians barred from entering or transiting UAE

DUBAI,— Iranian nationals are currently barred from entering or transiting through the United Arab Emirates, as stated on Wednesday by Dubai based airline Emirates on its official website, Reuters reported.

The notice did not provide further details about the scope or duration of the restriction.

Another UAE carrier, Flydubai, said Iranian nationals who hold a UAE Golden Visa are exempt from the rule and may still enter or transit through the country.

The measures come at a time of rising tensions between Iran and Gulf states.

In recent days, the United Arab Emirates reportedly has also revoked residency visas of some Iranian nationals who were outside the country, based on accounts from affected individuals and information reported by UK-based Iran International. Some of those individuals have been unable to return to the UAE.

One case involved a London based Iranian with a United Kingdom work visa who said he learned his UAE residency had been canceled before traveling to Dubai.

Reports also indicate that long term residency permits, including 10-year Golden Visas, were revoked while holders were abroad.

Tensions in the Middle East have increased since February 28, 2026, when the United States and Israel carried out joint airstrikes against Iran.

Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting locations across the Gulf region. According to the report, targets included airports, seaports, hotels, residential areas, and oil facilities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The UAE Minister of State called for strong action against Iran after repeated attacks on Arab countries, warning that coexistence with the Iranian regime is no longer possible.

(With files from Reuters)

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