Has the US-Iran conflict reduced the appeal of Gulf expat life?
The US-Iran conflict has significantly altered the perception of the Gulf as a safe haven for expatriates. Many families are reconsidering their stay due to increased regional volatility and economic downturns. While some areas remain stable, the overall appeal of Gulf life has diminished for many expatriates.
- ▪The US-Iran war has led to attacks on Qatar, impacting the Gulf's image as a safe haven.
- ▪Expatriates are facing job losses and business closures due to the conflict's economic repercussions.
- ▪Some long-term residents express resilience, citing past crises and strong ties within the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Has the US-Iran conflict reduced the appeal of Gulf expat life?Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxThe war has fundamentally changed the image of the Gulf as a safe haven.PHOTO: REUTERSBorzou DaragahiPublished May 21, 2026, 05:00 AMUpdated May 21, 2026, 05:00 AMSummariseThe US-Iran war, with attacks on Qatar, shattered the Gulf's image as a safe haven, causing expatriates to reconsider staying due to new regional volatility.The conflict led to significant economic downturns, including decreased tourism and airport traffic, as well as causing job losses and business closures across the Gulf.While some Gulf areas like Saudi Arabia remain unaffected, others face severe disruptions.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.