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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Holly Bishop

British tourists stuck in Dubai criticise ‘confusing’ support from UK government

A couple stuck in Dubai amid ongoing Iranian strikes has expressed their frustration at the British government as they attempt to make their way home.

Speaking to Sky News on Tuesday (3 March), Sarah and Ed Short said that they have been given “very little information” from UK authorities, including a static line when trying to contact the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) hotline.

The Shorts, who were on a British Airways flight on Saturday (28 February) that was held on the runway when the conflict broke out, said they have been allocated a repatriation flight back from Oman but will have to make their own way there, against the British consulate’s advice.

On Tuesday (3 March) Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper told MPs that "safety and security" of British nationals stranded was a "top priority".

Sir Keir Starmer confirmed that more than 1,000 British nationals have arrived back in the UK on commercial flights from the UAE, with a further eight flights leaving on Wednesday. One charter flight is leaving Oman today, and two more in the coming days, he said.

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