NAIROBI, Kenya — The Embassy of Russia in Kenya has advised its nationals in Kenya to prepare for prolonged travel disruptions following airspace closures across parts of the Middle East.
In a notice issued on Monday, the embassy said the shutdown of key flight corridors; including over the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, had left some Russian citizens unable to depart Kenya via traditional transit hubs.
“Due to the closure of airspace over Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE and Qatar, as a result of the armed aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran, we urge Russian citizens who were unable to depart from Kenya to transit points to take the following steps,” the notice read.
Consular registration and alternative routes
The embassy urged affected travellers to formally register with consular services and report any travel challenges.
“Install the “Assistant Abroad” mobile application and, by any available means, inform the embassy about the difficulties encountered and register for consular services,” the notice added.
It further advised citizens to engage airlines and travel agencies directly to clarify rebooking, refunds or compensation arrangements.
“Notify your tour operator about the problems with departing to Russia and contact the airline operating the flight or the agency that sold the ticket directly to clarify the possibility of rebooking or the terms for a refund/compensation,” the notice continued.
Passengers were also encouraged to explore alternative transit hubs still operating international routes.
“Consider returning your ticket and traveling back to Russia via other operating transit hubs (Addis Ababa, Cairo, Istanbul, etc.),” the notice further read.
Airlines operating out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have increasingly rerouted flights to avoid restricted Middle Eastern airspace, resulting in delays, extended layovers and rising ticket prices.
Aviation analysts say prolonged closures could significantly disrupt East Africa–Europe and East Africa–Asia travel corridors, many of which rely on Gulf carriers.
US issues global advisory
Separately, the United States Department of State issued a global security alert to American citizens following escalating military operations involving Iran.
“Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
“They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures,” the statement read.
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The department urged heightened vigilance and encouraged Americans abroad to enrol in official alert systems.
“The Department of State advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution. Enroll at step.state.gov to receive the latest security alerts and follow the U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens channel on WhatsApp,” the statement added.
“When planning travel, read carefully our Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent alerts carefully,” the statement concluded.
Broader impact on Kenya and the region
Kenya serves as a key aviation hub in East Africa, with significant passenger traffic routed through Gulf states such as the UAE and Qatar.
Sustained airspace restrictions risk affecting tourism flows, business travel and cargo operations, particularly horticultural exports destined for European and Asian markets.
Regional carriers, including those operating via Addis Ababa and Istanbul, are expected to absorb increased passenger volumes if Gulf corridors remain partially or fully closed.
Diplomatic missions in Nairobi continue to monitor developments closely, as uncertainty over Middle East security conditions raises concerns about further disruptions to global aviation networks.
