Dubai & Abu Dhabi | Aviation Update

Major aviation hubs in the United Arab Emirates have extended suspension of flight operations as regional airspace closures linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt civil aviation.  

 

🛑 What’s Happening

• All flight operations at key UAE airports remain suspended as of March 2, 2026, due to ongoing airspace closures across the region.  

• Temporary shutdowns are in effect at:

• Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport — major global air traffic hubs

• Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi

• Sharjah International Airport

Passengers have been advised not to travel to the terminals until normal operations resume.  

 

✈️ Airlines Extend Suspensions

 

UAE-based carriers have extended flight suspensions in response to the situation:  

• Emirates — All flights to and from Dubai suspended until at least March 3, 2026 (15:00 UAE time).

• Etihad Airways — All Abu Dhabi departures and arrivals halted until 14:00 UAE time on March 3.

• flydubai and Air Arabia — Services suspended until conditions improve.

 

In addition, several international airlines, including carriers from India and Europe, have cancelled or temporarily halted flights tied to UAE hubs.  

 

🧳 Government Support for Stranded Travellers

 

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has activated emergency procedures to support passengers affected by the disruption. Authorities confirmed that the government is covering costs such as accommodation and meals for stranded travellers, and airlines are providing rebooking or refund options through official channels.  

 

⸻

 

🛫 Impact & Ongoing Situation

 

The extended suspensions reflect continuing regional instability and airspace closures, which have forced key Gulf aviation markets into a standstill. This has wide implications for global connectivity, given the strategic role of UAE hubs in intercontinental travel.  

Passengers are strongly advised to regularly check with airlines or airport authorities for the latest travel updates and avoid travelling to airports unless their flights are confirmed to operate.