Amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following last week's U.S.-Israeli air strikes on Iran, 372 South Koreans returned home from Dubai on the first direct flight. The Emirates flight arrived at Incheon International Airport, and the government had consulted with the UAE to facilitate safe returns. Around 18,000 South Koreans are believed to be in 14 Middle Eastern countries.
The first direct commercial flight from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Incheon landed on Friday, March 6, following the start of the war on Iran last weekend. The Emirates flight arrived at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, around 8:25 p.m., carrying 422 passengers, including 372 South Koreans, according to airport officials.
The government had earlier consulted with the UAE government to enable the safe return of South Koreans from the Middle East via direct flights. Around 18,000 South Koreans are currently believed to be in 14 Middle Eastern nations, including 4,900 short-term travelers, of whom 3,500 are stranded due to canceled flights.
This return flight marks part of the South Korean government's efforts to evacuate citizens amid regional tensions, with further assistance expected. Airport officials confirmed the arrival time and emphasized the safe homecoming of the passengers.
