450 Greeks Repatriated from Dubai Amidst Middle East Tensions
Athens, March 9 – A special flight organized by Greece’s Foreign Ministry successfully repatriated approximately 450 Greek citizens who had been stranded in Dubai. The Emirates Airbus A380, operating as flight EK2553, landed at Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) late Saturday night, just before 11:30 p.m., bringing an end to days of anxiety for the passengers and their waiting families.
Emotional Reunions at Athens International Airport
The arrival hall at Athens International Airport was filled with anticipation as dozens of relatives and friends gathered as early as 9:30 p.m. to await the flight. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, culminating in heartfelt hugs and visible relief as passengers emerged, marking the end of a period of uncertainty caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Passengers Recount Tense Days in Dubai
Several repatriated passengers shared their experiences of the tense atmosphere they encountered in Dubai. Accounts included frequent interceptions and the constant sound of explosions, creating an unsettling environment. One passenger described a particularly intense day, recalling, “You could hear explosions again and again. It created a strange and unsettling atmosphere.”
A mother traveling with her children spoke of the emotional toll of hearing the sounds of conflict while striving to maintain composure for her family. “We’re fine, and the state handled everything very well and in an organized way,” she stated. “But even when you know you are protected, it is frightening to hear those sounds.” She further elaborated on the anxiety caused by the unfamiliar noise of explosions, despite assurances that defensive measures were intercepting incoming threats. “I never experienced a strike near me,” she added. “But hearing those sounds was something very unusual for us.”
Another passenger recounted a specific security incident involving a drone attack that was successfully intercepted. “It was a difficult situation, and we were aware of what was happening,” she explained. “There was a drone attack that was shot down, and we were moved into a room so we could stay safe.” Despite these incidents, she noted that daily life in Dubai largely continued without major disruptions and expressed her intention to return to the city in approximately ten days, as it is her permanent residence. “There was a small incident at the marina,” she said. “But overall people are fine.”
Ongoing Repatriation Efforts
This special flight is part of broader repatriation efforts coordinated by Greece’s Foreign Ministry. Daily flights are underway to bring back Greek citizens from the UAE, Qatar, and surrounding regions. Priority is being given to vulnerable individuals, including children and the elderly. As of the latest reports, over 2,500 requests for repatriation have been received, underscoring the significant impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict on Greek nationals abroad.
The successful repatriation of these 450 citizens highlights the Greek government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens in volatile regions.
Source: https://www.tovima.com/society/450-greeks-repatriated-from-dubai-in-late-night-athens-flight/
