Remote work, offices shut: Tech giants scramble to respond as Iran war escalates

The region has been positioning itself as an AI hub, following billions of dollars in investment by tech giants.

Major U.S. tech firms, including Nvidia and Google, are scaling back operations in Dubai due to escalating tensions over the U.S.–Iran conflict, leading to office closures and travel disruptions that have left many employees stranded in the Gulf.

Employers across the Middle East are adjusting to the escalating conflict by implementing remote work policies and evacuating employees to ensure safety, with some companies halting travel to the region and others offering housing options for workers who feel insecure.

Iranian drones have targeted Amazon Web Services (AWS) facilities in the UAE and Bahrain, causing structural damage and disrupting power, marking a significant escalation in the conflict's impact on global tech infrastructure.

The conflict in Iran has led to widespread airspace closures and flight cancellations, stranding thousands of travelers, including business professionals, and prompting companies to issue travel advisories and assist employees in returning home safely.

The recent U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran have led to retaliatory cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure, including AWS data centers, prompting cybersecurity teams to enhance monitoring and preparedness against potential threats.