Several UAE residents have recently come forward to share their experiences of theft while traveling on flights. The incidents have raised concerns among travelers, prompting them to be more vigilant and cautious during their journeys. One such victim, Arsalan Hameed, recounted how he blacked out and discovered that his cash and Rolex were missing from his bag after a journey from Abu Dhabi to Riyadh via Doha. Similarly, another resident, Muhammad Salman Lakhany, experienced fraudulent transactions and theft of cards and cash after a short flight from Riyadh to Dubai in May.
According to a former cabin crew member, Bhavica Khatri, such theft incidents are not very common on flights due to stringent security measures in place. However, when they do occur, they are usually coordinated and executed by organized groups. These thefts primarily take place during night flights when passengers are asleep and cabin crew are occupied elsewhere. The thieves often take advantage of the darkness and distraction to steal valuables from unaware passengers.
In response to these incidents, travel experts in the UAE have provided tips to help passengers protect themselves from theft while traveling. They recommend getting travel insurance, keeping valuables with you, investing in a secure bag, using travel locks, and using Smart Tags or luggage trackers for valuable items. Additionally, they advise passengers to stay alert, keep digital copies of important documents, be aware of their surroundings, and trust their instincts if they notice anything suspicious.
If a passenger suspects theft during a flight, they are advised to discreetly inform the cabin crew, who are trained to handle such situations professionally. Once on the ground, passengers should report the theft to local authorities immediately. In the case of fraudulent transactions, blocking cards and reporting the crime online can help prevent further losses. While authorities may conduct investigations and take necessary actions, passengers should take proactive measures to safeguard their belongings and minimize the risk of theft while traveling.
