All Rwandan nationals living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Bahrain are safe, according to Rwanda’s Embassy in Abu Dhabi. In a statement issued Wednesday, March 4, the embassy said it was closely monitoring the security situation in the Middle East amid rising tensions in which the United States and Israel are at war with Iran. ALSO READ: How Rwandans in Middle East are keeping safe “The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the United Arab Emirates wishes to inform all Rwandan nationals residing in or visiting the UAE and the Kingdom of Bahrain that it is closely monitoring the security situation in the region,” the statement read. The embassy added that it was in constant contact with members of the Rwandan community and was coordinating with relevant authorities to ensure that citizens receive the necessary support. “The embassy and consulate team is in close contact with Rwandans within the jurisdiction and is coordinating with relevant entities to ensure our citizens receive the necessary services and support,” the statement reads. ALSO READ: Rwanda-bound travellers stuck in transit in Middle East Rwandans in the two countries were also advised to follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities. The embassy urged Rwandan tourists in the UAE, particularly those stranded due to closure of different airports in the region, to register with the embassy so that they can be assisted if necessary. Several Middle Eastern countries host Rwandan communities. Some of them, including Israel, UAE and Bahrain, have already experienced attacks after Iran's retaliatory missiles were fired into their territories. Members of the Rwandan diaspora in the region who spoke with The New Times said they are staying in close contact with Rwandan embassies and following official safety guidance. No Rwandan has reported injury or harm so far.
