'Only real option for people': Ultra wealthy pay Rs 3.2 crore to leave region amid rising Middle East conflict

Dubai was among the Gulf areas hit by Iran’s retaliation on Saturday. (Image credit: Reuters)

• Wealthy elites pay up to $350,000 to flee Gulf amid Iran strikes
• Private jets and security firms see surge in demand from Dubai
• Dubai airport hit by debris, minor damage and flight disruptions

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Amid missiles and drone strikes in the Gulf, the ultra-wealthy were paying $350,000 (around Rs 3.2 crore) to fly out of the Middle East on private jets, the New York Post reported.

Following the joint strikes carried out by the US and Israel on Iran, Tehran responded by launching missile and drone attacks targeting US bases and allied sites in the Gulf. On Saturday, blasts and interceptions were widely reported across Dubai, causing panic among certain, especially wealthy, foreigners in Dubai and nearby Abu Dhabi.

Amid this, rich elites living in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been frantically reaching out to private security companies for an exit route. According to a report by the New York Post, some are willing to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to be driven 10 hours to Saudi Arabia, where they can then charter private planes to Europe.

Amid rising tension, wealthy elites in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have reportedly been contacting private security firms to arrange safe exits. According to the New York Post, some are ready to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for a 10-hour drive to Saudi Arabia, from where they can hire private jets to Europe.

Ameerh Naran, chief executive of private jet brokerage Vimana Private, said, “Saudi Arabia is the only real option for people who want to get out of the region right now.”

“We’ve been approached by a mixture of clients including families, individuals, and corporations that want to get out of the region either because their fear for their safety, or for business reasons they just need to be able to travel,” said Ian McCaul of Alma Risk, a UK-based security firm.

Charter rates have risen sharply amid the rush to leave. Firms reported that flights to Europe can now cost up to $350,000 due to high demand and fewer aircraft available.

US, Israel-Iran war

Dubai was among the Gulf areas hit when Iran launched its retaliatory strikes on Saturday, and debris from intercepted missiles and drones fell in parts of the city. Videos circulating on social media showed smoke trails across the skyline, and a fire was also reported near the luxury hotel Fairmont The Palm after falling debris landed nearby.

Dubai International Airport confirmed minor damage to one concourse after the incident, which was quickly managed. Four members of staff sustained injuries. Officials said only a few flights would resume and asked passengers not to come to the airport without airline confirmation.