The United Arab Emirates has offered free accommodation for travellers stranded in the country amid heavy missile and drone bombardment from Iran in the wake of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Thousands of travellers have been stuck in the UAE since Saturday after Iran targeted several parts of the country, including the Dubai International Airport, with missiles and drones in retaliation for the ongoing attack on Iran by the United States and Israel. 

Emirati authorities immediately announced the temporary closure of the country’s airspace, preventing travellers from flying into and out of the UAE. 

Subsequently, the UAE Department of Culture and Tourism has issued a directive stating that guests who are unable to catch their flights out of the country on scheduled dates due to sustained Iranian attacks can apply for free accommodation until its airspace is reopened. 

“Pursuant to Law No. 8 of 2018 establishing the Department of Culture and Tourism–Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), with a mandate to develop the tourism industry in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

“In light of the current circumstances and given that some guests have reached their checkout date but are unable to travel for reasons beyond their control, you are kindly requested to extend their stay until they are able to depart. The cost of the extended stay will be covered by DCT Abu Dhabi,” the tourism department said. 

Reports noted that Iran launched new waves of attacks across the UAE on day two of the conflict on Sunday.