Repatriation of Luxembourg tourists from the Middle East: a collective effort of solidarity and coordination

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Over the past days, the Embassy of Luxembourg in Abu Dhabi played a central role in supporting the repatriation of tourists stranded in the region following the sudden disruption of air travel across the Middle East.

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Working around the clock at Muscat International Airport, embassy staff coordinated closely with national and international partners to organise repatriation flights to Luxembourg. Between 4 and 6 March, four flights were successfully arranged: two operated by Luxair, one chartered aircraft, and one MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) aircraft. In total, 516 tourists were safely returned home.

This operation also demonstrated the strength of European solidarity in times of crisis. More than 30% of the passengers were citizens of other European Union Member States, underlining the importance of cooperation and mutual support among EU partners.

For three consecutive days and nights, the Embassy remained in constant communication with the Crisis Center of the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, as well as with the Ministry of Mobility and Public Works, and Luxair, ensuring a coordinated and efficient response focused on passenger safety.

The repatriation efforts continued beyond these initial flights. On 8 March, additional stranded tourists were assisted in Dubai and repatriated aboard two A400M aircraft operated by Belgian Defence, as part of the Belgian-Luxembourg military cooperation. These flights landed in Brussels, from where a bus organised by the Luxembourg Armed Forces transported the final group safely back to Luxembourg.

In just four days, more than 550 passengers were brought home safely—an achievement that reflects the power of teamwork, trust, and international solidarity.

The Embassy extends its sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to this complex operation. Special thanks are due to the authorities of the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman for their invaluable support, as well as to Dr. Adil Al Shanfari, Honorary Consul of Luxembourg in Oman, his wife Dr. Denitsa Al Shanfari, and their dedicated team for their outstanding collaboration.

Appreciation is also extended to Luxembourg citizens and residents for their patience and understanding throughout this challenging period.

A special acknowledgment goes to the Embassy team in Abu Dhabi, whose commitment and professionalism were instrumental to the success of the mission. Every team member present in the country worked tirelessly, day and night, to ensure that those affected were supported and informed at all times. Particular recognition is given to Ms. Estelle Gay-Folly from the Embassy’s consular section, who maintained continuous contact with travellers, providing reassurance and guidance under demanding circumstances.

Finally, the Embassy expresses its deep appreciation to the leadership of the United Arab Emirates for their continued commitment to the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors.