Uzbekistan Embassy: No Citizens Injured in Qatar Following Regional Crisis

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Qatar has confirmed that no Uzbek citizens have been injured following the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East, according to the Dunyo news agency.

As of 1 March, approximately 600 Uzbek nationals are currently in Qatar. This figure includes 31 diplomatic staff and their families, 40 students enrolled in Doha-based institutions, 250 temporary workers, and 270 individuals visiting for tourism or other personal reasons.

The ongoing regional crisis, marked by missile strikes and the widespread closure of civilian airspace, has caused significant disruptions at Hamad International Airport. On 28 February, 48 Uzbek citizens became stranded in Doha following the cancellation of several international flights. These passengers had originally planned to transit through Sharjah, Dubai, and Almaty to reach Tashkent. Despite initial reports that Qatar Airways, Air Arabia, and Saudia Airlines were unable to provide immediate accommodation due to the high volume of affected travelers, Uzbek diplomats intervened.

Embassy officials arrived at the airport to assess the condition of the stranded passengers and held negotiations with airline management and airport authorities. As a result, the mission secured temporary hotel stays and provided necessary consular assistance, ensuring a direct line of communication with all affected individuals.

The Embassy underscored that the flight cancellations constitute an emergency situation impacting travelers of all nationalities. While accommodation resources remain limited across the region's airlines, the diplomatic mission continues to advocate for the interests of Uzbek citizens.

Safe repatriation will proceed once Qatari airspace officially reopens and commercial aviation resumes. In the interim, the Embassy advises all citizens to remain calm, follow the directives of Qatari authorities, avoid crowded areas, and stay clear of potentially high-risk zones.

Uzbek citizens currently in Qatar for tourism who require support or consultation are encouraged to contact Otabek Muratov, Consul of the Embassy of Uzbekistan, at +974 5141 1001.