The UAE on Friday announced it had evacuated “a number of citizens and residents” stranded in Iran due to the conflict with Israel.
The evacuees were flown to the Emirates in rescue missions carried out with the support of Iranian authorities, state news agency Wam reported.
Video footage shared by Wam showed elated passengers - many overcome with emotion - disembarking the evacuation plane following its arrival in Abu Dhabi.
One man is seen falling to his feet to kiss a welcome mat on the airport tarmac, while a female passenger is close to tears.
Airspace was closed over Iran and other countries in the region after Israel launched a wave of missile attacks on Tehran last Friday.
Iran and Israel have continued to exchange fire in the days since.
The hostilities have caused widespread travel disruption, with many airlines suspending and rerouting flights in response.
The UAE said it was involved in extensive diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the deepening crisis in the region and restore stability and security.
Emirati authorities did not say how many citizens and residents were flown out of Iran under the humanitarian campaign.
UAE support
The UAE on Saturday had urged Emiratis in Iran - as well as Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and Israel - to register with the Twajudi, a government service to support nationals abroad and to help co-ordinate repatriation in an emergency or crisis.
Authorities have also sought to support Iranians in the Emirates who are unable to return to their homeland due to the continued conflict.
The UAE on Tuesday announced it would waive overstay fines for Iranian citizens facing delays leaving the Emirates because of travel restrictions imposed due to the Israel-Iran conflict.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) said the measures would apply to residents and visitors holding any type of entry visa.
The decision has been made under the directives of President Sheikh Mohamed in solidarity with those caught up in “exceptional circumstances” affecting the region.
