UAE rejects claims of planned deportation of Iranian nationals
Photo: Reuters
The United Arab Emirates has denied reports of planning to deport Iranian nationals. Its Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement late on Wednesday, saying that the UAE is home to "more than 200 nationalities" reflecting its "enduring commitment" to upholding tolerance.
UAE Affirms Embrace of Iranian Community as Integral to Its Diverse Social Fabrichttps://t.co/e1QUISmWwz pic.twitter.com/mDSfCgz4HM
Responding to what it called “inaccurate media claims” about Iranian citizens’ status, the ministry said the UAE’s approach is based on established legal frameworks that protect the safety and well-being of all its residents.
It reaffirmed its commitment to a safe, stable, law-based environment that safeguards all residents’ rights.
The statement followed reports alleging the UAE had barred Iranian passport holders, including valid residents, from entry and transit, which officials had not previously addressed, Turkiye Today reported.
Some 1,262 Iranian citizens have returned to their country following the suspension of direct travel routes with Iran, the Iranian Consulate in Dubai said, according to Anadolu Agency.
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Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh said a “comprehensive support package” has been prepared to safeguard the assets and interests of the Iranians in response to the reported UAE measures.
The citizens returned to Iran via alternative routes, including flights via Afghanistan and Armenia, the semi-official ISNA reported on Wednesday, citing the consulate.
The consulate said it did not have any dedicated programmes for travel by ship or air for the time being.
The consulate’s statement comes amid media reports that the UAE has restricted the entry of Iranian nationals. The move was reportedly communicated through notifications by airlines Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airways, and Flydubai.
Emirates' website said on Wednesday that Iranian nationals were not allowed to enter or transit the United Arab Emirates.
Flydubai said Iranian nationals holding a UAE "Golden Visa" were exempt and permitted to enter and transit the country.
The restrictions come amid heightened tensions between Iran and Gulf state due to the US-Israel war against Iran that began on February 28.