Wealthy elites in parts of the Middle East are reportedly paying up to $350,000 (approximately KSh45 million) to secure private jet exits as regional tensions escalate and missile strikes disrupt daily life.
Private aviation brokers say ultra-high-net-worth individuals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have rushed to arrange emergency evacuation plans following coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iran over the weekend.
Surge in Demand for Exit Routes
Firms report a sharp spike in calls from clients seeking immediate ways out of the region. Security advisers indicate that some individuals are agreeing to travel long distances by road to reach safer departure points.
Several wealthy residents have opted for 10-hour drives into Saudi Arabia, where private jet operators are still facilitating outbound flights to Europe.
Saudi Arabia Seen as Key Corridor
Ameerh Naran, chief executive of Vimana Private, says Saudi Arabia currently remains the most reliable exit corridor.
“Saudi Arabia is the only real option for people who want to get out of the region right now,” Naran said, noting that limited aircraft availability and heightened security concerns have significantly increased charter prices.
Private jet operators explain that soaring demand has pushed one-way flight costs to Europe as high as $350,000, effectively limiting emergency evacuations to those able to mobilise payments and travel documents within hours.
Business Hubs on Edge
Recent missile and drone strikes have unsettled Gulf business hubs, particularly Dubai, which in recent years has attracted large numbers of foreign entrepreneurs, investors and influencers seeking stability and tax advantages.
As uncertainty continues, aviation brokers say inquiries remain high, with clients prioritising speed, discretion and guaranteed access to aircraft.
