Last updated: March 21, 2026 — If you are an expat in Abu Dhabi weighing whether and how to leave, this guide walks you through every option available right now, from government-assisted flights to the overland route through Oman.
Assess Your Situation First
Before making any move, take stock of your circumstances. Do you have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity? Is your UAE residence visa current? Do you have dependents, pets, or medical needs that complicate travel? The answers will determine which evacuation route makes the most sense for you. If your documents are expired or lost, contact your embassy immediately — most are processing emergency travel documents on an expedited basis.
Option 1: Government-Assisted Evacuation Flights
Several governments have organized charter and assistance flights from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The United States began operating assistance flights to European destinations from both cities on March 4, with the first chartered flight carrying hundreds of Americans landing at Dulles International Airport near Washington, DC. More than 9,000 Americans have already returned from the Middle East through these efforts.
How to register for U.S. assistance flights: Complete the Crisis Intake Form on the U.S. Embassy website. Those who have submitted the form are being contacted on a rolling basis as flights become available. You can also call the State Department at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada) around the clock. Make sure you are enrolled in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov.
UK citizens: The UK has arranged charter flights departing from Oman. The first evacuation charter from Muscat landed in the UK following a 24-hour delay, with additional flights planned in coming days. Monitor the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) travel advice page and register for alerts.
EU citizens: The European Commission has coordinated repatriation flights to Bulgaria, Italy, Austria, and Slovakia, with more planned. Contact your national embassy or consulate for specific flight availability.
Option 2: Commercial Flights
Commercial aviation is gradually resuming, though capacity remains severely reduced. Etihad Airways is operating limited flights from Abu Dhabi — during one three-hour window, at least 16 Etihad flights departed to destinations including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Mumbai, Islamabad, and Moscow. Emirates is also running reduced schedules from Dubai.
Expect significantly higher prices and limited availability. Book directly through airline websites or apps rather than third-party aggregators, as schedules change rapidly and refund policies are more straightforward when booking direct. Be prepared for last-minute cancellations and have backup dates ready.
Option 3: The Overland Route Through Oman
This has become the most reliable evacuation corridor. Oman remains largely unaffected by the military conflict, and Muscat International Airport is operating with regular international flights. Muscat has emerged as a critical staging point for evacuation and repositioning flights.
How to do it: Drive or take a bus from Abu Dhabi to the Hatta border crossing into Oman. The border is open 24/7 but expect long queues — wait times have stretched to several hours during peak periods. From the border, continue to Muscat (approximately 4-5 hours by road) and fly out from Muscat International Airport.
What you need: A valid passport, your UAE exit permit (if applicable), and an Oman visa. Many nationalities can obtain an Oman visa on arrival or through the Royal Oman Police e-visa portal. Check your eligibility before departing. Several bus companies operate the UAE-to-Muscat route — book at least 24 hours in advance as demand is extremely high.
Important warning: Flights from Muscat are significantly overbooked and prices have escalated. Book immediately once you decide on this route, and have backup dates.
What to Pack for Emergency Evacuation
Travel light but smart. Prioritize: passports and identification documents (originals and photocopies), cash in multiple currencies (USD, AED, OMR if going through Oman), prescription medications with documentation, phone chargers and portable battery packs, essential hygiene items, a change of clothes, and any critical documents like employment contracts, property deeds, or insurance papers. Take photos of all important documents and email them to yourself as backup.
Before You Leave: Critical Steps
Notify your employer of your departure plans. Contact your bank to ensure your cards will work abroad and consider transferring funds using services like Wise. Inform your landlord in writing. If you have pets, check airline pet policies immediately — many evacuation flights do not accommodate animals, and you may need to make separate arrangements through pet relocation services. Cancel or pause utilities and subscriptions. Give a trusted contact your travel itinerary and check-in schedule.
If You Cannot Leave
If evacuation is not immediately possible, shelter in place and stay informed. Stock up on essentials (water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries). Stay away from windows during any alerts. Follow the UAE National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) on social media for real-time updates. Register with your embassy so they know you are in-country and can reach you when evacuation opportunities arise.
This article is updated as the situation evolves. Bookmark this page and check back for the latest information. For real-time crisis resources, visit our Crisis Hub.