Fiji's Cabinet approves contingency fund for citizens in Middle East

Fiji's Cabinet has approved a contingency fund of FJD $1.96 million to support the possible evacuation of Fijians from Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and the wider Gulf region if the Middle East conflict worsens.

There are currently 751 Fijian nationals living across the Middle East and nearby regions, with the largest numbers based in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and among Fiji's military personnel deployed in Sinai and the Golan Heights.

Fiji's government confirms that all Fijian nationals in these areas are safe and accounted for.

In a social media post, the government said it remains committed to safeguarding the well-being and safety of all Fijians living and working overseas.

In an update earlier this month, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade said it continues to closely monitor the evolving security situation in the Middle East region.

It described the security situation as volatile and may escalate further, without warning.

The Ministry said travel plans for Fijian nationals may be affected, even if your destination is not the Middle East region.

It said Fijian nationals were encouraged to consider voluntary evacuation from affected areas as soon as practical.

Last month, Fiji's government issued an advisory calling for all its citizens to remain calm and take precautions.

Fiji's Embassy in Abu Dhabi said Fijian nationals who are not residents of the United Arab Emirates should register with the embassy as soon as possible amid airspace closures in the Gulf Cooperation Council region.