Following recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the “absolute priority” is ensuring the safety of French nationals across affected countries. The warning comes amid fears of wider regional escalation.
But how many French citizens are currently living in the Middle East?
According to data from the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, based on the Register of French Citizens Living Abroad as of December 31, 2025, nearly 190,000 French nationals are officially registered in the region.
Which Countries Are Included?
There is no universally agreed definition of the “Middle East.” French diplomacy groups together several states under the strategic “North Africa/Middle East” category. For the purposes of this overview, the region stretches from Egypt to Turkey and also includes Iran.
Where Do French Nationals Live in the Region?
The largest French communities are concentrated in:
- Israel: 75,000
- United Arab Emirates: 33,438
- Palestine: 22,365
- Lebanon: 19,682
- Turkey: 13,625
Other significant communities include:
- Egypt: 7,599
- Saudi Arabia: 6,353
- Qatar: 5,724
- Jordan: 1,676
- Bahrain: 1,068
Smaller French communities are registered in:
- Iran: 901
- Kuwait: 828
- Oman: 670
- Syria: 474
- Iraq: 318
- Yemen: 11
Important Caveat: Not the Full Picture
The Foreign Ministry stresses that these figures must be handled with caution. Registration on the official list of French citizens abroad is voluntary. As a result, the actual number of French nationals living in the Middle East may be higher.
Moreover, tourists, short-term visitors, and business travelers currently present in the region are not included in these figures.
Evacuation Plans Under Consideration
Amid escalating tensions and airspace closures across parts of the Middle East, several airlines have suspended routes to the region. President Macron has stated that France is preparing to repatriate its nationals “as soon as airspace reopens,” should the situation require it.
With nearly 190,000 registered citizens across a volatile region, the security and potential evacuation of French nationals represent a major logistical and diplomatic challenge for Paris if the conflict continues to intensify.
