Tunisia has banned Emirates airline from landing in the country after a number of Tunisian women were prevented from boarding its flights.
The move comes following widespread anger among Tunisians, with rights groups labeling the airline’s move as “racist and discriminatory.”
The North African country’s transport ministry said the ban would remain in place until Emirates was able to “operate flights in accordance with law and international agreements.”
UAE authorities however said situation arose due to security procedures.
“We contacted our Tunisian brothers about security information that necessitated taking specific procedures,” Emirati Foreign Minister Anwar Gargash said on Sunday via Twitter.
“We highly value Tunisian women and respect them,” he added.
Tunisian government officials said the UAE had banned the country’s women from flying to or transiting through its territory.
Local media reported that the UAE measure had lasted several days.
According to AFP news agency, some Tunisian women said their journeys to the UAE had been delayed and some that their visas had to undergo additional examination.
