In transport cages, tight hugs, and looks of relief, dogs and cats returned with their humans from the Middle East on a repatriation flight. It felt more like a return to life than a simple move. Joy was evident on everyone’s faces — not just because they came back, but because they didn’t have to leave a part of their family behind. No one faced the unbearable dilemma of separation, no one had to choose.
The special mission, organized under extremely difficult conditions due to tensions in the Middle East, transported 101 Greek citizens from the United Arab Emirates, accompanied by more than 45 companion animals. Dogs, cats, and other small animals traveled alongside their humans in an operation that was destined to be recognized as one of the most humane — and at the same time pioneering — repatriation flights internationally.
The flight, symbolically named “Ark,” was not just a transport. It was a practical statement of values. As emphasized by Nikos Chrysakis, Special Secretary for Animal Protection in Greece, companion animals “are not luggage” — they are family members. And this time, no one was left behind.
A little after 19:30 last night at Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, the arrival doors opened and the scenes that followed were unprecedented: hugs, tears of relief, and little paws stepping again on familiar ground. Transport cages opened, tails wagged impatiently, and people who had lived through days of anxiety found safety again — together with those who never left their side.
The operation had previously been postponed due to security conditions, leaving dozens of Greeks stranded in the Emirates. However, its final execution highlighted something deeper than a simple repatriation: the need for a more humanitarian approach to crises, where the concept of family is not limited only to humans.
In a world that often moves quickly and coldly, this flight reminded us of something old and timeless — that in difficult times, you don’t leave anyone behind. Not even those who cannot speak but understand you better than anyone else.
Among them was journalist, author, and TV producer Maya Tsoklis, known for her travel shows, who contributed to the effort for the safe return of those repatriated.
