Bhatkal: Missile fears following Iran’s retaliatory strikes in the Gulf have prompted several Indian expatriates — including families from Bhatkal — to leave Dubai and return home via Muscat amid growing security concerns in the United Arab Emirates.

Although UAE air defence systems intercepted most of the incoming missiles and drones, falling debris in parts of Dubai triggered panic among residents. In Al Mamzar, fragments reportedly struck near a residential building, briefly causing a fire. A Bhatkal woman living in a nearby building said emergency teams quickly contained the situation and no injuries were reported. However, shaken by the incident, her family travelled by road to Muscat and later reached Bhatkal via Kozhikode.

Khaja Fozan Bhatkali, a social worker based in Muscat, said a large number of Indians are arriving from Dubai and booking onward flights to various Indian cities. He said visa requests have surged sharply, with travel agents processing hundreds of applications in a single day. Airfares have also risen significantly due to the sudden rush.

According to sources, at least three more Bhatkal families from Bur Dubai have left for Muscat and are expected to return via Mangaluru. Long vehicle queues have been reported at the UAE–Oman border as expatriates seek alternative routes out of the Emirates.

Despite the tension, returnees said UAE authorities are extending necessary support to foreign nationals and maintaining emergency response readiness.