The cost of private jets to evacuate citizens from the Gulf states has skyrocketed as the conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate. Some wealthy individuals are reportedly paying up to $350 for a flight to safe destinations in Europe and beyond. Following US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, many international airlines have canceled flights to the Middle East, causing chaos at airports and severely limiting travel options. As a result, demand for private jets has skyrocketed, pushing prices to record highs.
Iranian missiles and drones have struck areas like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Qatar and Bahrain, places that were until recently considered relatively safe. In these conditions, many wealthy citizens are fleeing to Saudi Arabia, which is seen as one of the safest ways out of the Region.
The Saudi capital, Riyadh, has become a major transit hub, with its airport remaining operational and with regular international connections. Private security companies are reported to have hired fleets of SUVs to transport people from Dubai to Riyadh, a journey of around 10 hours by land, before arranging private flights out of the Region. The evacuees include senior executives of international financial corporations, investors and high-net-worth individuals who were in the area for business or leisure. According to aviation industry sources, a private jet flight from Riyadh to Europe has cost up to $350,000 (around £260,000), due to high demand and lack of availability.
One factor that makes Saudi Arabia particularly attractive is the fact that several neighboring countries have restricted movement. Oman, for example, closed several roads after an Iranian attack on a port and an oil tanker.
Meanwhile, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, located about 35 kilometers from the city center, continues to operate normally. The airport has five terminals and regular connections to Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa. Saudi authorities have also eased visa procedures, allowing many citizens to obtain visas on arrival, a move that has significantly increased the flow of those seeking a quick and safe exit from the Region.