Flydubai attacker began a 'drift towards extremism and terrorism' in Australia, UAE says

The United Arab Emirates said the attacker involved in the Flydubai incident began a “drift towards extremism and terrorism” while in Australia.

The statement provides the UAE’s account of the attacker’s path toward extremist activity. The available information does not include further details about when that shift began or the circumstances surrounding it.

Passengers regained control of the flight

The Flydubai aircraft was diverted to Saudi Arabia after passengers managed to take back control of the plane. The diversion followed the onboard incident and altered the flight’s planned journey.

The episode connects developments on board the aircraft with the UAE’s claims about the attacker’s background in Australia. However, no additional information is provided on the flight’s route, the passengers involved or what happened after the diversion.

What is known

• The UAE said the attacker began moving toward extremism and terrorism in Australia.
• The Flydubai flight was diverted to Saudi Arabia.
• Passengers managed to regain control of the aircraft.