South Africans stranded in Kuwait since the outbreak of the US-Israel-Iran war are beginning to make their way home.
This development comes as partial airspace reopening across the Gulf creates a narrow but critical window for repatriation of South Africans stranded in Kuwait and other Gulf states.
What Caused South Africans to Be Stranded in Kuwait
The disruption follows joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory missile and drone attacks across the region. Aviation authorities in Iran, Israel, Iraq, Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan imposed partial or complete airspace closures. These closures severely affected global travel corridors, leaving thousands of foreign nationals, including South Africans stranded across the Middle East.
DIRCO’s Response to Stranded South Africans
DIRCO initially placed evacuation plans on hold as widespread airspace closures blocked safe movement out of affected countries.
Hundreds of South Africans stranded in Dubai had already begun returning home by March 7, after the UAE partially reopened its airspace. Emirates resumed three daily flights to South Africa following the reopening.
However, emergency repatriation flights from Dubai were briefly suspended again after drones were intercepted near the airport.
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This added further uncertainty for South Africans still stranded in Kuwait and other Gulf states awaiting evacuation.
Emergency Contacts
South Africans stranded in Kuwait should contact DIRCO immediately using the following emergency numbers: +965 9720 0172 / +965 9979 4483 / +965 9916 7899, or email CICC@dirco.gov.za.
Citizens are urged to register with the nearest South African embassy and follow official channels for flight and evacuation updates.
