Tech giants move to protect staff after US-Israel strikes on Iran

Major U.S. technology companies including Nvidia, Amazon and Alphabet are taking emergency measures to protect employees traveling through or based in the Middle East following joint U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran.

Chipmaker Nvidia temporarily closed its Dubai offices, instructing employees to work remotely. In an email sent to staff early on March 3 and reviewed by CNBC, CEO Jensen Huang said the company’s crisis management team has been “working around the clock and actively supporting affected employees and their families” in the Middle East, including around 6,000 Nvidia employees based in Israel.

Meanwhile, dozens of employees from Google have reportedly been stranded in Dubai following a regional sales conference due to disruptions in air travel. Sources familiar with the matter said the employees are unable to leave because of flight cancellations and regional instability.

A Google spokesperson said most of the affected employees are regional staff rather than U.S.-based workers. The company added that it has security and safety measures in place and has advised employees to follow guidance from local authorities.

“The situation in the Middle East is evolving rapidly and we are monitoring it carefully,” a Google spokesperson said in an emailed statement. “Our focus is on the safety and well-being of our employees in the region.”

Social media company Snap Inc. also confirmed it has instructed employees at its four Middle East offices to work remotely until further notice. The company said staff have been advised to follow recommendations from local authorities, including shelter-in-place orders and guidance regarding departures.

By Sabina Mammadli