Australia has deployed emergency consular teams to the Middle East as thousands of travellers and expatriates remain stranded amid escalating regional tensions and widespread disruption to international air travel.

The federal government confirmed that multiple crisis support teams from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade are being sent to the region to assist Australian citizens and permanent residents struggling to leave after large-scale airspace closures and flight cancellations.

Officials said the teams will provide on-the-ground support, coordination with airlines and authorities, and help Australians navigate rapidly changing travel conditions.

The deployment comes as an estimated one hundred and fifteen thousand Australians remain in the Middle East, including roughly twenty-four thousand in the United Arab Emirates.

Many have been unable to depart after airports and key transit hubs across the region suspended or reduced operations following military escalation that triggered security concerns and aviation disruptions.

Australian authorities have emphasized that assisting such a large number of citizens presents a complex logistical challenge.

The government has activated its national crisis centre and expanded consular services to respond to the surge in requests for help, while also launching an online registration system allowing citizens in affected countries to request assistance and receive updates.

Air travel across the Middle East has been severely disrupted, with thousands of flights cancelled as airlines suspended operations and governments closed or restricted airspace in several countries.

Major aviation hubs such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi—commonly used by Australians travelling between Europe, Asia and Australia—have been among the hardest hit by the restrictions.

Despite the disruption, limited commercial services have begun operating again in some locations.

One early flight departing Dubai carried more than two hundred Australians back to Sydney, offering relief to families after days of uncertainty.

Officials have indicated that commercial flights remain the primary pathway for most travellers attempting to leave the region.

Authorities have advised Australians still in the Middle East to monitor official travel guidance, remain in contact with airlines and follow instructions from local authorities.

In some cases, travellers have been urged to shelter in place or avoid sensitive locations while security conditions remain volatile.

The government has also warned that even Australians not travelling through the Middle East may experience disruptions, as the crisis has affected global aviation routes and connecting flights across multiple continents.

While officials acknowledge the distress facing families with loved ones stranded overseas, they have stressed that the priority remains the safety of Australian citizens and diplomatic staff in the region.

Crisis teams will continue supporting Australians on the ground while authorities work with international partners and airlines to facilitate safe departures as travel routes gradually reopen.