30 Andorrans Stranded in Middle East After Iran Attack Airspace Closure

Around 30 Andorrans have been stranded in the Middle East due to the sudden closure of airspace following an attack on Iran, prompting the Andorran government to coordinate consular support and travel agencies to manage rebookings.

The airspace shutdown, implemented on Saturday, primarily affected flights connecting through the United Arab Emirates and Qatar—key hubs for long-haul routes. It left nationals and residents travelling in the region stuck, mainly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi or Doha. The Foreign Affairs ministry confirmed two Andorran nationals living in Israel and six residents in Dubai, adding to the roughly 30 affected by the closures. Officials reported staying in touch with all of them, stating they are safe, and advised them to remain in place while following local safety directives. Coordination continues with Spanish and French consular authorities to provide necessary assistance, under the convention for aid abroad.

Witnesses among the stranded described relative calm. An anonymous Andorrana in Dubai said the night had been quiet in her area, with only a couple of explosions heard nearby. She continued daily life and work while monitoring developments. In a WhatsApp group of 22 Andorrans there, members shared updates. Josep Garcia, temporarily in Dubai, recounted experiencing occasional blasts but little in his neighbourhood. Authorities urged remote workers like business owners to stay put and avoid unnecessary travel. He noted the UAE's strong military infrastructure and a prevailing sense of tranquillity, emphasising the need to wait and heed official guidance.

Travel agencies reported an influx of cancellations, with all trips to the Middle East suspended at least until March 6. Maica Terrones, deputy director of the Andorran Travel Agencies Association (AAVA), called the situation highly uncertain and too early for forecasts. Airspace reopened only yesterday afternoon, triggering immediate disruptions. Airlines are offering full refunds or penalty-free date changes; for package deals, local providers handle reimbursements, with insurance stepping in where needed. Some agencies secured tentative return bookings for March 5, though success depends on flights departing. Passenger safety remains the top priority.

Specific cases included a client from South Africa, stuck in Doha after a connection fell through and buying a new ticket out-of-pocket pending reimbursement. Another flight to Doha turned back to Barcelona just three and a half hours after takeoff upon news of the closure. No cancellations have hit upcoming weeks yet, but agencies are managing day by day based on airline decisions.

Jordi París, president of the Hoteliers' Union, said such global instability breeds uncertainty in tourism and the wider economy, complicating travel planning and mobility. Andorra might see a minor boost if travellers shift to nearby destinations instead.