Cyprus completes repatriation of 950 citizens from the United Arab Emirates

As of March 8, 2026, the Republic of Cyprus has successfully repatriated 950 individuals from the United Arab Emirates through six chartered flights. The evacuation efforts were launched in response to regional instability and conflict in the Middle East that escalated earlier in the week. The majority of the returnees are Cypriot citizens and their families, alongside permanent residents and other EU nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinated the operation with support from the Ministry of Defence and the Department of Civil Aviation. While reports suggest between 2,000 and 6,000 Cypriots were originally in the UAE, authorities continue to provide consular assistance to those remaining in the region. The operation faced logistical challenges, including flight cancellations and temporary suspensions at Dubai International Airport following an aerial interception incident on Saturday. The government maintains that it will continue providing transport options until all affected citizens in high-risk zones have returned safely. Citizens are urged to register via the Connect2CY platform for ongoing support.