Operation "Ark": 101 Greeks repatriated from Dubai with their 45 pets

The plane landed and citizens were reunited with their pets on Greek soil. Forty-five dogs and cats emerged from their special transport boxes, creating a particularly moving moment, with strong emotions in the arrivals hall.

Flight organization and safety

Operation “Ark” was implemented through coordinated efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Aegean, ensuring the safe transport of passengers and animals, in full compliance with health protocols.

“We achieved the impossible”

Some owners could not hold back their tears, experiencing the relief and joy of returning to Greece with their beloved friends, after a difficult period of uncertainty.

A woman holding her large dog noted: “We are very happy, grateful. As you can see, for us they are not just pets. They are members of our family, we could not leave them behind.”

A man who participated in the mission emphasized the sense of security he now feels in Greece: “The missiles are there, the drones are there, so here we feel extra confident and safe. I don’t think any other country has done such a repatriation.”

Despite the bureaucratic challenges and delays, the escorts highlighted the coordinated effort of the embassy and ministries. “We had a very nice group, we gave 100%, we did the paperwork for the animals in no time so that we could come to our homeland with our children. "It's part of our lives," said another owner, while a third added with emotion: "A big thank you, we achieved the impossible."