30 Andorrans Stranded in UAE Amid Iran Conflict Airspace Chaos

Around 30 Andorrans, including nationals and residents, remain stranded mainly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi following Middle East airspace closures triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, with the conflict now involving Lebanon. Foreign Affairs Minister Imma Tor confirmed all are safe, mostly in hotels, and in constant contact with the ministry.

Recent updates show seven Andorran residents have returned or are en route via commercial flights as airspace reopens gradually, with some carriers resuming operations. Government spokesman Guillem Casal reported 25 people still awaiting resolution: 16 Andorrans, five French residents, and four Spaniards, all in secure locations. Eight Andorrans live in the region—six in Dubai and two in Israel—with the ministry monitoring their needs and whether they wish to return.

Tor instructed those affected to stay put, follow airline instructions, and await direct contact from carriers. UAE authorities are covering extra hotel nights, and the ministry is coordinating with Spanish and French consulates. No broad evacuations are planned, but Andorra is compiling lists of vulnerable cases—elderly people, those with illnesses, or families with minors—for priority on upcoming Spanish repatriation flights to Madrid this week. A first such flight has operated without Andorrans aboard.

The ministry held a virtual meeting with affected citizens on Wednesday. Dubai-based Andorran lawyer Pau Augé described daily life continuing amid routine air defense intercepts of missiles and drones—around 200 ballistic missiles and 500 drones neutralized recently. He noted falling debris from interceptions caused some fires but stressed the UAE is not at war, with administration functioning normally, including visa processing. Augé, who joined a repatriation list, expects de-escalation and plans to stay unless conditions worsen sharply. An anonymous Tel Aviv engineer called shelter drills familiar, with notifications giving 10 minutes' warning; she described life as mostly normal despite multi-country involvement.

Travel agencies report cancellations to the region through at least March 6, offering refunds or rebookings. AAVA's Maica Terrones said four clients are affected, two potentially on Barcelona repatriation lists, and stressed daily management amid uncertainty. Hoteliers' Union president Jordi París highlighted tourism risks but possible gains for nearby destinations.

Tor expressed government concern over the volatile situation, advocating diplomacy and international law. She urged travelers outside Europe to avoid layovers in Qatar, UAE, or Kuwait, seek alternative routes, register at exteriors.ad, secure comprehensive insurance, and use the consular emergency line +376 324 292. Authorities warned against unverified social media information.