Toronto | March 7, 2026: Canada has intensified efforts to assist citizens seeking to leave the Middle East as the ongoing conflict involving Iran enters its second week, prompting growing security concerns and major travel disruptions across the region. Federal officials say thousands of Canadians have already requested help returning home as tensions continue to escalate and air travel becomes increasingly uncertain.
Canadians Return Home Through Emergency Arrangements: Emotional scenes unfolded Saturday morning at Toronto Pearson International Airport, where families gathered to welcome loved ones arriving from the Middle East. A group of at least 50 Canadians arrived from Dubai on an Emirates flight, with seats secured by the federal government as part of emergency travel arrangements. The arrival follows several other flights that have brought Canadians back to the country since Thursday. Many of those returning described the process of leaving the region as stressful and uncertain, citing widespread flight cancellations and limited travel options. Several passengers said they spent days attempting to secure seats on outbound flights before government assistance helped facilitate their return.
Ottawa Secures Flights for Canadians: Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, confirmed that the federal government has been working with airlines to reserve seats for Canadians attempting to leave the region. Officials say hundreds of seats have been secured on both commercial and chartered flights to support evacuation efforts.
According to government figures, approximately 3,500 Canadians have requested evacuation assistance, while more than 108,000 Canadians are currently registered with Global Affairs Canada in the Middle East. Authorities say priority is being given to Canadians who have indicated they wish to depart areas directly affected by the escalating conflict.
Alternative Travel Routes Being Organized: With several airports experiencing operational disruptions and some regional airspace closures, Canadian authorities are also arranging alternative travel routes. Among the options being coordinated are charter bus transfers for Canadians travelling from Qatar to Saudi Arabia, where commercial flights remain available. Officials say around 180 seats have been organized for ground transportation beginning today.
In addition, Canadians are being advised to consider crossing land borders into neighboring countries where international flights are still operating, provided it is safe to do so. Government officials say all travel guidance is being issued based on evolving security conditions in the region.
Regional Conflict Raises Security Concerns: The current crisis began on February 28, following military strikes involving the United States and Israel targeting sites in Iran. Since then, the situation has escalated with retaliatory missile and drone attacks reported across parts of the Gulf region. Security incidents have affected several neighboring countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain, raising concerns about the safety of international travel and regional stability.
Earlier Saturday, operations at Dubai International Airport were temporarily suspended following reports of an explosion near the airport. Although flights later resumed, the disruption added to the travel challenges facing many Canadians attempting to leave the area.
Canada Issues Travel Warnings: The Government of Canada has issued strong travel advisories urging Canadians to avoid all travel to several countries affected by the conflict.
These advisories currently apply to: Iran, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Qatar, United Arab Emirates
Officials say the situation remains highly unpredictable and Canadians currently in the region are urged to closely monitor government updates.
Emergency Assistance Available: Canadians requiring urgent assistance can contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre, which operates 24 hours a day. Emergency contact details: Phone: +1-613-996-8885, Email: sos@international.gc.ca
Government officials say they will continue coordinating with airlines and international partners to help Canadians safely leave the region.
Situation Continues to Evolve: Canadian authorities say evacuation efforts and travel coordination will continue in the coming days as the situation develops.
Officials are encouraging Canadians abroad to register with Global Affairs Canada and follow official government travel advisories for the latest updates.
Source: Information compiled from official Canadian government statements and publicly available international media reports.