Tunisian Community in Qatar Says It Is Safe, but Fear Persists Amid Gulf Tensions
Doha, 3 March 2026 – Abdelbasset Hilali, president of the Tunisian community in Qatar, confirmed that the community is currently safe, while warning that a climate of fear is growing because of the extraordinary diplomatic strains affecting Gulf states.
In a statement to the national radio on Tuesday, Hilali said many community members wish to return to Tunisia, but the main obstacle remains the closure of airspace.
“The only realistically viable option at the moment would be a return via Jeddah Airport in western Saudi Arabia, which is relatively secure,” Hilali explained. “However, access to that airport would have to be made by land.”
He added that this possibility is under active study, in close coordination with Tunisian authorities.
“We are evaluating every safe corridor, and we will keep the community informed as soon as a concrete plan is approved,” Hilali said.
Official Advisories
- Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Yesterday, the ministry urged Tunisian nationals living in the Middle East to stay vigilant and to follow the instructions issued by local authorities.
- Consulate General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates – Today, the consulate called on Tunisians who do not yet have a consular registration card to register immediately, ensuring they can receive timely assistance.
Keywords: Tunisian community Qatar, Abdelbasset Hilali, airspace closure, Jeddah Airport, Gulf diplomatic tensions, Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, consular registration Dubai.
