Tag Archives: oceania

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Dubai Airport damaged in reported strike, four hurt

Dubai's airport, the world's busiest, has suffered "minor damage" in an apparent missile strike as Iran retaliated to the United States and Israel's attacks.

Four people were injured at Dubai International (DXB), which handles around 300,000 passengers daily and 95 million a year, including on Emirates flights to and from Australia.

Images show clouds of smoke or dust and debris on the floor.

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Dubai Airport damaged in strike

"Emergency response teams were immediately deployed and are managing the situation in coordination with the relevant authorities," a Dubai Airports spokesperson said.

"Four staff sustained injuries and received prompt medical attention. Due to contingency plans already in place, most of the terminals were previously cleared of passengers."

READ MORE: Aussies warned against travelling to much of the Middle East in wake of strikes on Iran

https://twitter.com/DXBMediaOffice/status/2027866024318767134?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

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One person, an Asian national, was killed and seven others were injured during a drone interception at Zayed International Airport in neighbouring emirate, Abu Dhabi.

It's also a major international hub including for flights from Australia with Etihad.

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Aussies warned against travelling to much of the Middle East in wake of strikes on Iran

The Australian government has warned against travelling to most of the Middle East in the wake of the US-Israel operation in Iran and retaliatory strikes on US military bases.

The ongoing risk of further reprisal attacks prompted a flood of warnings from the government's Smartraveller platform, which warned against travel to key regions in the Middle East.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advises Australians not to travel to: Qatar, Iraq, Yemen, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Israel and Lebanon.

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Fairmont Hotel in Dubai

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Australians have also been warned to not travel to Iran and to leave as soon as possible, consistent with advice given recently after unrest and previous strikes in the country.

"We continue to advise Australians to not travel to Iran – this has been in place since 2020 – and to leave Iran as soon as possible," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said this morning.

"Australian officials are closely monitoring what is an evolving situation, unfolding rapidly.

"It is critical that anyone in the region takes note of the Smartraveller website for the most up to date information that we can provide.

He said the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is opening a registration portal for Australians seeking to leave Iran and will be directly in touch with registered Australians.

Flights to and from the UAE, Qatar, Israel and Bahrain have been cancelled as the strikes spark fears for tourist safety.

While in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Egypt and Armenia, Australians are told to "exercise a high degree of caution".

READ MORE: Luxury Dubai hotel damaged as Iran retaliates to attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said the government is concerned about travellers in Iran.

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Travellers planning to head to Jordan have been told to "reconsider your need to travel".

The Smartraveller notices advised "there is a risk of further reprisal attacks and escalation across the region".

"Demonstrations and protest activity may also occur, and local security situations could deteriorate with little notice," they added.

"Airspace closures and flight disruptions are already occurring across the region and may impact flights globally, causing delays and cancellations."

Albanese, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong reiterated the latest travel advice earlier today in a joint statement shared following the US strike.

"Australian officials are closely monitoring this evolving situation. We continue to advise Australians do not travel to Iran and leave Iran as soon as possible, if it is safe to do so," the statement read.

"Given our concerns around security in the region, we have also upgraded Australia's travel advice for Israel and Lebanon to Do Not Travel.

"Australians should leave now if it is safe to do so.

"The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has activated its Crisis Centre to provide consular support to Australians in the region," the statement continued.

"Australians requiring urgent consular assistance can contact the Consular Emergency Centre 24/7 on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 from outside Australia."

The Insurance Council of Australia has urged Australians to prioritise their safety as the situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little warning.

"Smartraveller has issued 'Do Not Travel' advisories for several countries across the Middle East, and we strongly encourage all Australians in or planning travel to the region to follow the latest advisories," a spokesperson said.

"Travellers should be aware that most policies do not cover losses arising from acts of war or armed conflict.

"Follow consular advice via Smartraveller and register your travel plans with DFAT

"Contact your airline or travel provider directly for the latest flight information, as airspace closures may cause delays, cancellations, and rerouting, including for travellers not destined for the Middle East.

"If you hold travel insurance, contact your insurer if you require any further assistance."