Travelers stranded as Middle East conflict spreads as governments scramble to bring citizens home

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 6 min read 100% complete by By KELVIN CHAN and ADAM SCHRECKMarch 2, 2026 at 02:53 PM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

On Monday, March 2, 2026, global air travel faced significant disruptions due to escalating conflict in the Middle East, involving U.S.-Israel strikes and Iranian retaliation. Airports in major transit hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha closed after being directly hit by Iranian strikes, stranding tourists, business travelers, and religious pilgrims. Governments worldwide are working to assist their citizens in returning home amidst the uncertainty surrounding airport reopenings and flight resumptions. Gulf carriers are resuming some flights, even as the conflict continues to fuel travel chaos. Travelers are advised to shelter in place while awaiting updates.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Doha 40% Abu Dhabi 40% Dubai International Airport 40% Emirates 50% United States ×260% Israel ×270% Gaza Strip 80% Iran ×390% Middle East ×3100%

Keywords

middle east conflict 90% travel chaos 90% stranded travelers 80% flight cancellations 70% airport closures 70% government repatriation 60% iranian strikes 50% gulf carriers 50% travel disruption 40%