Karnataka expatriates safe but anxious as tensions escalate in West Asia

As tension escalates in parts of West Asia, hundreds of people from Karnataka living in the region or there on travel are anxious, even as authorities maintain that the overall situation remains under control. While expatriates from Karnataka currently report being safe, uncertainty over further developments has left them on the edge.

In Doha, Qatar, Kutappa B.D., who has been employed there for the past decade, described a tense atmosphere marked by frequent explosions. Although certain areas have witnessed strikes, he said, residential neighbourhoods remain secure for now.

“We are safe at present, though the situation around us is tense. There have been continuous bombings, mainly targeting U.S. military installations in Qatar. The explosions are powerful enough to cause vibrations and loud sounds, and we have barely been able to sleep because of it. Despite this, there is no direct threat to civilians in our area. We trust the Qatari government will take every step to ensure the safety of residents. While there is anxiety about what may happen next, we are hopeful that the situation will stabilise soon,” he said.

Despite relative calm

In the United Arab Emirates, particularly in Dubai, expatriates have reported witnessing drones and missiles crossing the night sky. Priya S., originally from Mangaluru and currently working in Dubai, said the visuals have been unsettling.

She noted that she never imagined such scenes unfolding in a city known for its stability and vibrant lifestyle. According to her, the UAE authorities have advised residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary, especially as debris from intercepted missiles has posed risks in certain areas.

“Our parents, relatives and friends back home are worried because of the constant news reports and social media messages. But there is no need for panic. We are safe here. The government has been cooperative and responsive. Apart from being cautious and staying indoors, life in residential areas is largely normal,” she said.

Air travel disruptions, however, have created significant inconvenience. With several flights suspended or delayed, hundreds of tourists and expatriates from Karnataka are stranded across cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

MLAs safe

Among those currently in Dubai are Congress MLAs Na.Ra. Bharath Reddy and S.R. Srinivas, along with JD(S) MLC S.L. Bhojegowda. In a video message released on Monday, Mr. Reddy stated that around 35 people from Ballari accompanying him were also safe. According to him, the Karnataka government has been in constant contact, and the list of those stranded has been shared with the Indian Embassy.

“We have shared the complete list of all 35 individuals with the State government, and it has been forwarded to the Indian Embassy here. As per the information available to us, airport operations are expected to resume as soon as the situation stabilises,” Mr. Reddy said.

Community organisations

Community organisations have stepped in to provide assistance.

Parashuram, a resident of Downtown Dubai and a member of Kannada Nudi Sangha, said that volunteers have been supporting stranded individuals with information and coordination. While acknowledging that the past two days had been worrying, he said there was “no immediate cause for alarm.” “I urge people not to venture outside unnecessarily and I would like to tell families in Karnataka that expatriates in the UAE remain safe,” he said.