Airports Reopen Cautiously as Airlines Operate Reduced Services
Air travel across the United Arab Emirates is slowly returning to normal as airports and airlines resume limited operations following disruptions caused by ongoing regional tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah airports have all restarted flights, but schedules remain reduced and subject to change as authorities continue to assess security conditions.
Dubai Airports Resume After Temporary Suspension
Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) have reopened after a brief closure, with a strict advisory in place: passengers should only travel to the airport if their airline confirms their flight is operating. Between March 2 and March 5, Dubai Airports managed over 1,140 flights—more than 500 of which were outbound—serving more than 80 countries and offering upwards of 105,000 seats, all under enhanced safety protocols.
Major Airlines Adjust Schedules
UAE’s leading carriers have restarted operations on a limited basis:
- Emirates is gradually resuming flights, prioritizing passengers with confirmed bookings.
- Etihad Airways has updated its schedules and is accommodating travellers with existing tickets.
- flydubai and Air Arabia have both restarted select services, strongly advising passengers to check flight status before heading to the airport.
Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah airports are also operating with restricted schedules as the situation evolves.
Flexible Rebooking and Refund Policies
To assist travellers affected by cancellations or delays, airlines are offering flexible rebooking and refund options:
- Emirates and flydubai allow free rebooking for travel between February 28 and March 31.
- Etihad Airways offers free changes for tickets issued on or before February 28, valid until May 15, or the option for a refund.
- Air Arabia passengers can change dates within 15 days, receive a full voucher, or request a refund.
Travellers are encouraged to manage bookings online or through agents due to high call volumes.
Safety Remains Paramount
All airlines emphasize that passenger and crew safety is their top priority. Flights are only operating after full coordination with aviation and security authorities. Transit passengers are being accepted if connecting flights are confirmed, and loyalty miles will be credited as usual once travel is completed.
Authorities continue to monitor developments closely, with hopes that airline operations will stabilize further in the coming days.
