Uzbekistan and UAE officials discuss recent entry denials for Uzbek nationals at Abu Dhabi Airport

During the discussions, the parties examined recent incidents where Uzbek nationals faced difficulties entering the UAE, including the case of 31 passengers on a Wizz Air flight from Tashkent to Abu Dhabi. These passengers were denied entry at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed International Airport on November 30. Videos and images of the incident circulated widely on social media, sparking public concern.

The MFA reported that both sides agreed to take "necessary measures to resolve the situation promptly" and ensure such incidents do not recur.

In response to the situation, Uzbekistan’s embassy in the UAE initiated dialogue with airport authorities and Emirati officials, asserting that the matter was under control. Some of the affected passengers have since returned to Uzbekistan, with Wizz Air working to repatriate the remaining individuals.

The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following the arrest of three Uzbek citizens in the UAE, suspected of involvement in the death of a Jewish rabbi. While authorities have not confirmed a direct link between the cases, the events have drawn significant public and diplomatic attention.