With Iran launching missiles at UAE on February 28, 2026, many expats are asking: "Should I leave Dubai?" This comprehensive guide helps you make an informed decision based on your personal situation, provides evacuation planning steps if you choose to leave, and explains why most residents are staying.
The short answer for most residents: Stay calm, stay informed, stay put. UAE's defense systems are working, and evacuation carries its own risks. However, if you have specific vulnerabilities or personal reasons to leave, this guide provides everything you need.
Quick Assessment: Should You Leave?
- STAY if: You have shelter, supplies, no urgent medical needs, and can work remotely
- CONSIDER LEAVING if: Pregnant, elderly, serious medical conditions, young children, or embassy advises
- LEAVE if: Your embassy issues mandatory evacuation order
Current Flight Status (February 28, 2026)
⚠️ Airport Operations Suspended
- Dubai International (DXB): CLOSED until further notice
- Al Maktoum International (DWC): CLOSED until further notice
- Abu Dhabi (AUH): CLOSED until further notice
- Sharjah (SHJ): Limited operations - check with airline
- Estimated Reopening: Dependent on security situation
Alternative Exit Routes
If you decide to leave and airports remain closed, consider these alternatives:
| Route | Method | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muscat, Oman | Drive (4-5 hours) | Same day | Oman NOT targeted by Iran - airports open |
| Salalah, Oman | Drive (10 hours) | Same day | Further from conflict zone |
| Saudi Arabia | Drive via Al Ain border | 6-8 hours to Riyadh | Check border status - may be restricted |
| Sea Evacuation | Ferry/Cruise ships | Varies | Some countries arranging naval evacuation |
Embassy Evacuation Assistance
Contact your embassy immediately if you want evacuation assistance. Many embassies are arranging charter flights and convoys:
Major Embassy Emergency Lines
- USA: +971 2 414 2200 (Abu Dhabi) | +971 4 309 4000 (Dubai)
- UK: +971 2 610 1100 | Register: gov.uk/register-crisis-abroad
- India: +971 4 397 1222 | WhatsApp: +971 56 546 2636
- Pakistan: +971 4 397 0600
- Philippines: +971 2 445 7100
- Canada: +971 2 694 0300
- Australia: +971 2 401 7500
- Germany: +971 2 644 6693
- France: +971 2 443 5100
Important: Register with Your Embassy NOW
Even if you're staying, register with your embassy so they can contact you with updates and evacuation options if the situation escalates:
- USA: step.state.gov
- UK: gov.uk/register-crisis-abroad
- Canada: Registration of Canadians Abroad
- Australia: smartraveller.gov.au
Decision Framework: Stay or Leave?
| Factor | Reason to STAY | Reason to LEAVE |
|---|---|---|
| Health | Healthy adults with no conditions | Pregnant, elderly, chronic illness, need medications |
| Family | No dependents or teens+ who understand protocols | Infants, toddlers, disabled family members |
| Shelter | Modern building with basement/parking | Villa without shelter, near military installation |
| Work | Can work remotely, employer supportive | Must be physically present, employer demanding |
| Embassy | Embassy says shelter-in-place | Embassy recommends/orders evacuation |
| Assets | Property, business, long-term residency | No significant ties, can relocate easily |
| Destination | No safe destination arranged | Family/housing waiting elsewhere |
If You Decide to Leave: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Immediate Preparations (First 2 Hours)
- ☐ Contact your embassy for evacuation options
- ☐ Check flight/border status - airports may reopen
- ☐ Inform employer and request emergency leave
- ☐ Alert family at destination of your plans
- ☐ Secure important documents (see list below)
Step 2: Essential Documents to Take
- ☐ Passport (valid 6+ months)
- ☐ Emirates ID
- ☐ Visa pages (photos/copies)
- ☐ Birth certificates
- ☐ Marriage certificate
- ☐ Property documents (if owner)
- ☐ Insurance policies
- ☐ Bank cards and cash (USD/AED)
- ☐ Medications with prescriptions
- ☐ Phone chargers, power bank
Step 3: Secure Your Dubai Life
- ☐ Pay rent ahead if possible (Ejari protects your tenancy)
- ☐ Inform landlord/building management
- ☐ Secure valuables or take with you
- ☐ Turn off gas, unplug appliances
- ☐ Arrange for car storage or take to safe location
- ☐ Inform bank of travel plans
- ☐ Set up international access to UAE bank accounts
Step 4: Execute Evacuation
- ☐ If driving to Oman: Full tank, water, snacks, charger
- ☐ Travel in daylight if possible
- ☐ Keep phone charged and share location with family
- ☐ Have backup plans for each leg of journey
- ☐ Don't overpack - mobility matters
Insurance Coverage During Conflict
What's Typically Covered
- Health Insurance: Most UAE health plans cover war-related injuries
- Travel Insurance: Check policy - many exclude war zones
- Property Insurance: Standard policies often include war coverage in UAE
- Life Insurance: Review war exclusion clauses
- Car Insurance: Comprehensive usually covers conflict damage
Returning to Dubai
If you leave, you CAN return. Your rights are protected:
Your Rights as UAE Resident
- Visa: Your residence visa remains valid - you can return anytime
- Employment: MOHRE protects your job during emergencies
- Property: Ejari contract protects your rental
- Golden Visa: Golden Visa holders have unlimited re-entry rights
- Business: Free Zone licenses remain active
Why Most Expats Are Staying
The overwhelming majority of Dubai's 3.5 million expats are choosing to remain. Here's why:
- Defense Success: 99%+ of missiles intercepted by THAAD
- Limited Targeting: Iran targeting military, not civilian areas
- Evacuation Risks: Travel during conflict can be more dangerous
- Economic Continuity: Banks, businesses, services still operating
- Historical Precedent: UAE remained safe during Gulf Wars
- Home Base: Dubai IS home - jobs, property, community here
Protecting Your Property Investment
For those with property investments in Dubai:
- Property values historically RISE after regional tensions resolve
- Dubai Land Department continues all services
- Rental income continues - tenants need housing
- Insurance covers war-related damage
- Safe haven effect increases property demand
Mental Health Support
Anxiety during crisis is normal. Resources available:
- Dubai Health Authority: 800 111
- Community Mental Health: 800 4673
- Careem Wellness: Teleconsultation available
- Speak with community: Connect with neighbors, colleagues
Whatever You Decide, Be Prepared
Whether staying or leaving, preparation is key. Know your options, have your documents ready, and stay connected with official channels.
