More than 10,000 Russian tourists and business travellers have been affected by flight cancellations and delays in the UAE due to the Israel-Iran conflict, with 2,000 currently stranded in the country, RBC reported on June 16.
The Russian consulate in Dubai reported that air traffic disruptions resulted from the temporary closure of Iranian airspace, affecting numerous travellers in neighbouring countries.
Russian and Arab airlines announced plans to operate more than 30 flights in both directions between Russia and the UAE, though the situation remains unresolved.
Stranded tourists include UAE residents and travellers who were transiting through the country on return journeys to Russia from other destinations.
Many passengers are currently waiting in hotels for flights home, with the situation causing significant inconvenience and some expressing frustration over lack of assistance from tour operators.
Play Dubai cancelled 22 flights to Dubai on June 13 and 14 from 10 Russian airports, contributing to travel disruptions. Emirates airline Air Arabia suspended flights to Russia and nine other countries.
Russia's Federal Aviation Agency banned domestic carriers from operating flights to and from Israel and Iran, RBC added.
Airspace closures in Israel, Iran, Jordan and Iraq further complicated travel for those stranded in the UAE.
The Russian consulate in Dubai said it maintains constant contact with airlines and tour operators to resolve the situation quickly and ensure citizens' return home.
Russia's Foreign Ministry, Rosaviation and airlines continue coordinating actions in the interests of Russian citizens abroad, according to the general consulate.
The Association of Tour Operators of Russia recommended travellers with UAE-Russia packages contact their tourism companies, whilst independent travellers should arrange alternative routes through third countries.
Newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda reported that authorities also recommend ensuring reliable mobile connectivity through roaming packages to stay informed about developments.