Hundreds of thousands of Bangladeshi expatriates in the United Arab Emirates are facing severe hardship as regional conflict and economic stagnation disrupt their livelihoods. The report describes widespread fear of drone and missile attacks, coupled with a sharp decline in income as schools and tourism sectors have stalled. Taxi drivers have seen earnings fall by about 70 percent, while many cleaners and construction workers have lost their jobs. Rising food and housing costs have pushed many into crisis, and several expatriates have been detained for unknowingly sharing war-related videos online.

Information technology specialist Mohammad Minhaj Uddin and Dubai-based worker Mohammad Zahed Ullah told the newspaper that many Bangladeshis are living in uncertainty and fear, with some killed or injured in recent attacks. They said diplomatic support from Bangladesh remains limited, while supply chain disruptions through the Hormuz Strait have driven up prices of essentials and fuel. Companies are cutting costs and delaying salaries, forcing many workers to consider returning home.

According to official data, the UAE hosts 1–1.2 million Bangladeshi workers, contributing 15–18 percent of Bangladesh’s total remittance. Prolonged instability could significantly affect the country’s foreign exchange reserves.