Bangladeshi expatriates stranded in Middle East due to regional conflict returned home up to 4 days behind schedule as flights resumed operations at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport today.

Four flights carrying returnees landed by late morning, bringing workers and Umrah pilgrims who faced flight cancellations amid Iran-Israel tensions. Passengers from Saudi Arabia and Dubai reported delays of four to five days beyond their original departure dates.

First arrival came from Muscat, Oman, where passengers experienced no disruptions. “Our situation was normal and we departed on time according to our tickets”, one passenger from Muscat flight said.

However, travellers from Saudi Arabia faced different circumstances. “Our original flight was cancelled due to ongoing conflict. We were supposed to leave earlier but finally managed to return today”, a Saudi returnee explained at airport.

Dubai passengers echoed similar experiences, confirming delays of approximately 4-5 days. Group included both expatriate workers and pilgrims who had travelled for Umrah before conflict escalated.

Despite delays, returnees emphasised that panic surrounding Middle East situation has been overstated. Family members waiting at airport confirmed receiving reassuring messages from relatives abroad. “They told us the fear being spread is exaggerated. Most areas remain safe”, one family member said.

Passengers clarified complications affected only one or two specific areas related to Iran-Israel conflict. Majority of regions hosting Bangladeshi expatriates experienced no major security issues.

Flights from Dammam Airport in Saudi Arabia remain suspended according to expatriate reports. Two additional flights from Doha and Medina were scheduled to arrive at 10:30am and 10:45am respectively.

Returnees said that they were not fleeing conflict zones but returning according to pre-planned schedules, though delayed by flight cancellations. “We are returning as scheduled, just a few days late”, one passenger confirmed.

Crisis intensity has diminished significantly in recent days, allowing flight operations to gradually normalise. Families expressed relief as loved ones arrived safely despite extended delays.