Arabic version: أول رحلة حكومية بريطانية لإجلاء المواطنين من الشرق الأوسط

British nationals have begun returning to the UK on the first government-arranged flight from the Middle East since the widespread conflict began six days ago. Passengers shared their experiences of a frantic journey to reach the flight, which was delayed nearly 24 hours due to technical issues before finally departing from Muscat, Oman.

According to BBC News, more than 140,000 Britons are registered with the UK’s foreign office in the region, following US-Israeli strikes on Iran that prompted retaliatory strikes by Iran across the region. Fazal Chowdhury, a Dubai resident, described the situation as “a little bit surreal” as he and his wife quickly drove to Oman upon hearing news of the attacks.

The flight, which landed at London’s Stansted Airport at 00:53 GMT on Friday, was part of a broader effort to assist British nationals in the region. Amid ongoing missile strikes affecting Dubai, many travelers faced precarious situations, including sheltering in hotel car parks and long waits at the airport.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that British Airways would provide daily flights from Oman, while the government is working to increase the airlift’s speed and capacity. Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer acknowledged the challenges faced in this evacuation effort, likening it to the consular difficulties experienced during the Covid pandemic.

As the situation continues to evolve, the Foreign Office is prioritizing vulnerable individuals for government flights, but many are advised that commercial flights may be the quickest route back to the UK. Those eligible for government flights are expected to cover their own costs for the seats.