Relief as first Irish flight from Dubai since Middle East crisis touches down

"We were seeing and hearing bangs and explosions, last night in particular it was jet after jet after jet going overhead, and then we heard the US Consulate was hit and that really scared everyone. This is my fourth flight that I rebooked and I didn't think I was going to get out."

"It was very frightening, you just didn't know and getting information on when you might be able to fly home was nigh impossible. Many had been in the UAE city since last Saturday amid the conflict between Iran and the US and Israel which caused widespread airspace closures in the Middle East, sparking major disruption to flights."

"Everyone clapped when the plane landed, and cheered, it was just magic. I didn't expect to see her because I told her I was getting a lift home. Dublin is the most beautiful city in the world."

Irish citizens who were stranded in the UAE during escalating conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel have begun returning to Dublin. Many had been trapped in the Middle Eastern city since the previous Saturday when widespread airspace closures disrupted flights. Travelers experienced frightening conditions including hearing explosions, seeing missile trails, and national alarm systems activating at night. Some described the Fairmont The Palm Hotel and airport being hit. Multiple direct flights from the Middle East landed in Dublin, with additional government charter planes scheduled for later in the week. Returning passengers expressed relief and emotion upon arrival, with some reuniting with family members who traveled to greet them.

Read at Irish Independent