Panic in Dubai as War Fallout Reaches Tourism Hub, JITO Rallies to Rescue Stranded Indians

Ahmedabad | Gujarat —- The shockwaves of the escalating Middle East conflict have now reached Dubai — the glittering tourism and transit hub that rarely sleeps. Following security concerns after Iran’s attack in the region, Dubai airport has been temporarily closed, triggering chaos for thousands of international passengers, including a large number from Gujarat and other Indian states.

Flights have been abruptly cancelled, hotel tariffs have surged overnight, and fear has gripped travellers stranded in a city suddenly on edge.

“It’s a very serious situation. Flights are being cancelled and everything feels blocked,” said Rajiv Chhajed, President of the Ahmedabad Chapter of Jain International Trade Organization (JITO). “People are panicking. They are worried about safety and unsure about when they can return home.”

As missile strike fears loomed and uncertainty grew, the Dubai Chapter of JITO stepped in with emergency relief measures. According to Chhajed and Jain leader Bhadresh Shah, more than 500 stranded passengers have already been assisted.

“We tied up with hotels to ensure people get rooms at controlled rates despite the surge in prices,” Chhajed said. “This is a humanitarian effort. We cannot leave people helpless in such times.”

24-Hour Helpline and Emergency Shelter

JITO’s Dubai wing has activated eight dedicated mobile helpline numbers operating round the clock. A hostel facility accommodating 80 to 100 people at a time has also been arranged to provide immediate shelter.

Bhadresh Shah explained that many travellers were in transit when the crisis erupted. “Passengers flying to Canada and other countries via Dubai are stuck because connecting flights were cancelled. Thousands are stranded,” he said. “We felt it was our duty to step forward.”

Hotel rents, Shah noted, have increased sharply amid the uncertainty. “We are negotiating extensions for those whose bookings are expiring. Many middle-class families are under stress, and in some cases, financial assistance has also been provided.”

Food, Mental Support and Preparedness

Beyond accommodation, JITO has set up a backup kitchen system to ensure vegetarian meals for those in need. “Our community members are strictly vegetarian. We have ensured food arrangements so no one faces difficulty,” Chhajed said.

He added that volunteers are also focusing on mental well-being. “When bombings are reported and sirens are heard, anxiety rises. We are offering emotional reassurance along with logistical support.”

A Gujarati resident in Dubai, Amit (name changed), described the tense atmosphere. “When the attack happened, loud sounds were heard. The government intercepted the missiles, and there has been no direct harm to civilians. Schools are closed and offices have shifted to work-from-home,” he said.

Authorities in Dubai have directed hotels to allow stranded passengers to extend their stay and ensure access to food and basic facilities.

While the situation remains fluid, JITO leaders say they are prepared for further escalation. “We have built a dam before the water,” Chhajed remarked. “If the crisis deepens, we are ready.”