Dubai is experiencing a tense calm, but several tennis players are currently unable to leave the city following the closure of airspace due to escalating conflict in the Middle East. Among those affected are top players Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev.

Evacuation Plans Underway

Medvedev and Rublev have reportedly designed an exit plan involving travel by car to Oman, where a private plane awaits to transport them out of the conflict zone on Tuesday morning. Potential final destinations include Türkiye or Armenia.

If the two Russian tennis players depart today, they are expected to be able to participate in the Indian Wells Masters 1000 tournament, which begins this Wednesday. Medvedev and Rublev’s debut would not be before Saturday, March 7.

Wider Player Group Awaiting Evacuation to Istanbul

More than 40 people, including players, families, coaches, ATP supervisors, and referees, are awaiting an evacuation plan to reach Istanbul. Efforts are underway to charter a plane from Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) for this purpose.

The conflict has also created a market for private transportation, with drivers reportedly offering transport to the Omani border for $2,000.

Impact on Indian Wells Open

The situation casts doubt on the participation of several players in the upcoming Indian Wells Open. The ATP held an emergency meeting on Sunday evening to discuss alternative travel options, but many players have decided to remain in Dubai for now.

Affected Players

• Daniil Medvedev
• Andrey Rublev
• Tallon Griekspoor
• Mate Pavic
• Harri Heliovaara
• Henry Patten
• Marcelo Arevalo