Riyadh has rapidly emerged as the primary evacuation corridor for senior executives and high-net worth individuals seeking to exit the Gulf after a weekend of escalating regional violence.
Cities once viewed as secure havens for global wealth – including Dubai and Abu Dhabi – were struck by Iranian missiles and drones, alongside targets in Qatar and Bahrain. The attacks shattered the perception of insulation that had underpinned the Gulf’s appeal to international investors, financiers, and ultra-wealthy residents.
Long convoys toward the Saudi capital
In the aftermath, Saudi Arabia’s capital has become one of the few functioning aviation gateways still operating at scale.
With commercial routes disrupted elsewhere, executives stranded across the UAE and neighboring states are undertaking the roughly 10-hour drive from Dubai to Riyadh to access outbound flights.
Private security firms have reportedly booked fleets of SUVs to transport families and corporate leaders across the desert corridor. Upon arrival, many are boarding chartered aircraft bound for Europe or other safe jurisdictions.
According to individuals familiar with the operations, those being evacuated include senior executives at global financial institutions, multinational corporate leaders, and ultra-wealthy individuals who had been in the region for business or leisure.
Private jet prices surge
The sudden spike in demand has sharply inflated aviation costs.
Ameerh Naran, chief executive of Vimana Private, a jet brokerage firm, said that private flights from Riyadh to Europe are now priced at up to $350,000 – multiples of typical charter rates.
“Saudi Arabia is the only real option for people who want to get out of the region right now,” he said.
Charter brokers and logistics providers are also reporting significant increases in ground transport costs, with SUV fleets and security escorts commanding premium rates.
Among the high-profile movements, Cristiano Ronaldo’s private jet departed Saudi Arabia for Madrid amid the intensifying regional crisis.
The situation escalated further overnight, with drones striking the United States Embassy in Riyadh, underscoring the widening security concerns.
