On Saturday morning, the USA and Israel launched attacks on Iran, resulting in significant destruction and the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This aggressive action has prompted Iran to retaliate with attacks against neighboring countries, including the United Arab Emirates. The escalation of violence in the region raises grave concerns for the safety of Norwegians traveling there and those residing in Gulf states.

According to Norway's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, around 2,500 Norwegians reported being in the region at the time of the attacks. Additionally, statistics from Innovasjon Norge indicate that a similar number of Norwegians live and work in Gulf states. Anne Lorgen Riise, who leads the Innovasjon Norway regional office in Dubai, emphasized that a significant number of Norwegians are employed in both Norwegian and international companies in the area, making them vulnerable to the ongoing conflict and its economic repercussions.

Currently, about 300 Norwegian companies operate in the Gulf region, with around 70 having established local branches in the UAE. The article questions how the escalating situation will affect Norwegian businesses operating there, as they may face challenges related to security, market instability, and potential shifts in the geopolitical landscape. The concerns for the safety of Norwegian nationals and the stability of local business operations underline the broader implications of the current conflict in the Middle East.