By Dennis Okechukwu
Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, a growing exodus of foreign nationals is underway from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The mass departures come in the wake of renewed attacks linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
High-profile departures have highlighted the seriousness of the situation. Among them, Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly left Saudi Arabia overnight, flying from Riyadh to Madrid on his £61 million Bombardier Global Express 6500 private jet. Riyadh, home to Ronaldo and his family, has been identified as a potential target in retaliatory strikes following recent U.S. and Israeli operations in the region.
Reports indicate that two drones struck the U.S. embassy in Riyadh overnight, while Iranian state media claimed destruction of a command and staff building in Bahrain. Flight tracking data circulating online showed the private jet taking a near seven-hour route over Egypt and the Mediterranean before landing safely in Spain.
The U.S. State Department has advised American citizens to leave more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries, citing heightened risks to personal safety. Several commercial flights bound for Riyadh and Abu Dhabi were reportedly diverted as the security situation deteriorated.
Foreign residents, including business executives, diplomats, and expatriate workers, are reportedly securing early departures amid fears of further escalation. Observers say the mass movement reflects growing anxiety over the possibility of more widespread attacks and disruption in key Gulf cities.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE, regional economic hubs, have long relied on foreign nationals for critical roles in business, finance, and sports. Experts warn that the exodus could have economic repercussions if the conflict continues to intensify.
While no official government statements have been made confirming an immediate threat to expatriates, the combination of targeted drone strikes, travel advisories, and high-profile evacuations underscores the precariousness of the situation.
As tensions between Iran, the U.S., and Israel show no sign of abating, analysts predict that the Gulf could witness further waves of departures, particularly among those with the means to leave quickly.