UAE evacuates 500 Golden Visa holders after airspace closure amid regional crisis

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) together with the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) arranged the return of around 500 Golden Visa holders and residents who were stranded abroad due to airspace closures amid escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

The operation was carried out through both air and land entry points. Since the escalation began on February 28, air routes across much of the Middle East have been intermittently closed or restricted.

Within the UAE, authorities applied protocols for Emergency Security Control of Air Traffic (ESCAT). It was reported that on March 16, flights were temporarily suspended following a drone attack near Dubai International Airport. During that period, Emirates—the country’s flagship carrier—was operating at roughly 60% of pre-war passenger load.

Consular support tested in real conditions

The evacuation marked the first rollout of the consular procedures MoFA launched for Golden Visa holders in October 2025. Officials described the initiative as effectively unique in both scope and format—globally without a direct equivalent.

Under the program, Golden Visa holders abroad can access 24/7 emergency assistance through a dedicated hotline: +971 2 493 1133. The service also includes electronic documents to return to the UAE if a person’s passport is lost, along with evacuation support during crises.

An electronic return authorization is issued by MoFA in about 30 minutes. The document serves as a single-entry basis for entering the country within 7 days. To apply, the applicant submits a police report, Golden Visa details, and a passport photo via the MoFA app, using UAE Pass identification. The service is provided free of charge.

MoFA and NCEMA said the response mechanisms were activated in advance: both entities implemented precautionary measures within their respective mandates. It was also emphasized that the operation required close coordination with UAE diplomatic missions abroad.

“The UAE delivers what it promises”: expert assessments

Wealthy Expat CEO Raphael Sintron praised the authorities’ actions. In his view, the country is meeting its stated commitments—supporting Golden Visa holders, enabling visa renewals with a “grace period,” and doing everything possible under risk conditions.

Savory & Partners founder and CEO Jeremy Savory compared the UAE approach with the UK’s approach. He stressed that the UAE “understands the value of citizens and residents” even when they are not “its own” in a narrow sense.

As a contrast, Savory pointed to the UK situation, where evacuations of Britons from the region were accompanied by public disputes over whether expats who left to optimize their tax burden should receive state protection.

For example, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said in Parliament on March 2 that it was “right” for UK expats in the region to start paying taxes to help fund the armed forces “like everyone else.” The comment sparked a wave of criticism.

“Unlike the outrage in the UK—‘they shouldn’t be evacuated if they don’t pay taxes’—although the discussion was mainly about tourists and UK tax residents, and most people actually stayed,” Savory noted. In his view, some countries back talent and capital, while others “demonize” it and make life harder for those who could benefit the economy.

UK expats face potential tax risks

The issue goes beyond political rhetoric. UK expats returning to the UK may face the risk of breaching the 183-day rule for tax residency. In that case, they could become liable for tax on worldwide income.

According to market participants, HMRC declined to provide separate guidance for people who had to leave due to the conflict. Tax advisers also warned that HMRC’s interpretation of “exceptional circumstances” is often narrower than most people expect. Some wealthy UK citizens chose temporary relocation to Ireland or France rather than returning home.

Overall, about 160,000 UK citizens are registered in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. With the UK fiscal year ending on April 5, those who were already in the UK have less time to plan appropriately.

Golden Visa as a competitive advantage: stress-tested by crisis

The evacuation comes amid further expansion of the Golden Visa program in the UAE. According to GDRFA (Dubai Department of Residency and Foreigners Affairs), 158,000 visas were issued in 2023, nearly double the figure from the previous year.

When MoFA launched consular services for Golden Visa holders last October, Savory described the UAE as a “forward-looking country,” noting that the value of the initiative continues to grow. At the time, Passport Legacy Chairman Geoffrey Henseler emphasized that a Golden Visa is not only a way to remain in the country, but also an opportunity to be part of its life.

The current regional crisis has effectively validated that point in practice. Whether the situation is considered a large-scale stress test of the system—or rather a demonstration of the concept—will depend on how long disruptions in the region last.

Still, risks remain: on March 17, the UAE briefly closed its airspace again after intercepting another wave of Iranian rockets and drones. About two hours later, the restrictions were lifted. Overall, flight operations remain unpredictable.

If you’re considering an UAE Golden Visa, it’s essential to think beyond the status itself—especially about how support works during unexpected events. At Digital Nomad, we help you understand the requirements, prepare your documents, and plan your move with confidence for legal stay. Learn more at https://digital-nomad.gr/en/goldenvisa.

Our Telegram channel about various types of Greek residence permits, digital nomad programs, and the Greek Golden Visa: @digitalnomadgr