The Albanian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Ridi Kurtezi, has reassured the public regarding the situation in Dubai amid regional tensions, noting that approximately 1,500 Albanians reside in Dubai and nearby cities, with additional tourists present.
Speaking to Top Channel, Kurtezi stated that there is no need for an emergency evacuation at this time, thanks to ongoing coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“The situation was unexpected and unpredictable, as the local leadership had been in continuous contact regarding Iranian plans. Gulf countries have long stated they will not allow attacks from their territories. The impact of recent events was therefore surprising,” he said.
Kurtezi further clarified:
“In the UAE we have around 1,400–1,500 Albanian residents, while there may be an additional 2,000 tourists moving without visas. We are in constant contact with them via calls and emails to provide guidance and reassurance. This is not a blockade but a temporary need to find alternative travel routes, as the UAE’s advanced missile defense system currently restricts air traffic to intercept potential threats.”
He emphasized that any reopening of airspace depends on the UAE and neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, which currently maintain closures for security reasons.
“For now, there is no discussion of evacuation, as entry and exit remain impossible not just in the UAE but in surrounding nations. Authorities have the situation under control,” Kurtezi added.
His statements aim to calm concerns among the Albanian community and tourists amid heightened security measures in the Gulf region.
