Indonesian Ambassador to the UAE confirms no Indonesian citizens have been harmed amid Middle East tensions

Indonesian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Judha Nugraha, has assured that to date no Indonesian citizens (WNI) have become casualties as tensions in the Middle East escalate, affecting security and flight operations in the UAE. The ambassador emphasised that security conditions in the UAE remain stable and under control, albeit with heightened vigilance. ‘So far, we have confirmed that no Indonesian citizens have been harmed. The Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi (KBRI Abu Dhabi) and the Indonesian Consulate General in Dubai (KJRI Dubai) continue to monitor developments and coordinate with various parties to ensure all Indonesians are safe,’ Judha said in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. The tensions in the Middle East region have led to the temporary closure of airspace in several countries since 28 February 2026 as a precaution against escalating regional tensions. This has disrupted international flight operations and affected a number of passengers stranded at various airports across the UAE. The RI mission in the UAE has also conducted a census of Indonesians directly affected by the flight disruptions. To date, at least 41 Indonesians are recorded as stranded travellers since the airspace closure was implemented. Nevertheless, Judha estimates the number could rise given that some Indonesians may not have reported to the RI mission. ‘We urge any Indonesians affected and who have not reported to contact the Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai immediately so they can be facilitated according to their needs,’ he said. To ensure maximum protection for Indonesians, the Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai have opened direct communication channels and are intensively coordinating with local authorities, airlines, and the Indonesian community across various regions of the UAE. The steps are taken to ensure every affected Indonesian has accurate information, access to necessary assistance, and travel alternatives if flights resume gradually. According to Judha, some of those stranded are transit passengers or travellers affected by cancellations or schedule changes due to regional security concerns. In addition to data collection, RI representatives also facilitate communication with airlines and provide support to Indonesians requiring logistical assistance or onward travel information. Judha stressed that the Indonesian government continues to carefully monitor regional developments through coordination with UAE authorities and Indonesia’s diplomatic networks in the region. He also urged Indonesians, whether at home or with family in the UAE, to remain calm and not be swayed by unverified information. ‘We understand the concerns arising from this situation. However, the public should not panic. The on-the-ground situation remains under control and we are optimistic the situation will subside soon,’ Judha said. He noted that the UAE government has taken various preventive and security measures to ensure stability and safety for residents and international visitors in the country. These measures include heightened security awareness, phased regulation of flight operations, and cross-agency coordination to maintain public order. In line with this, RI representatives in the UAE continue to strengthen communication with the Indonesian community to ensure all citizens receive up-to-date information and necessary assistance during the situation. The Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai also urged Indonesians to stay updated with official announcements from local authorities and to comply with all applicable safety advisories.