UAE Airspace Fully Reopens: What This Means for Indian Travelers

The UAE has announced the full reopening of its airspace, allowing Indian and UAE airlines to increase their flight operations to various destinations in India. This development comes as the overall flight situation in the Middle East improves, with several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar, facilitating air travel. The Ministry of External Affairs is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of Indian nationals abroad. Updated advisories are being issued to assist travelers with current flight statuses and local regulations. Read on to learn more about the implications of this reopening for Indian travelers.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 3, 2026, 17:52 IST

UAE Lifts Airspace Restrictions

New Delhi: The General Civil Aviation Authority of the UAE has declared a complete return to standard air navigation operations, lifting temporary safety measures. As a result, airlines from both India and the UAE have begun increasing their flight schedules to various Indian cities, as confirmed by a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Sunday.

The flight landscape in the Middle East is steadily improving, with more flights being added from the region to India.

Air travel continues from multiple airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to various Indian destinations. Qatar's airspace is partially accessible, with Air India, Air India Express, Indigo, and Qatar Airways operating flights from Qatar to India.

Kuwait's airspace is also open, allowing Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways to run flights to India. Similarly, Bahrain's airspace is operational, with Air India Express, Indigo, and Gulf Air providing services to various Indian locations.

Iraq has opened its airspace for limited operations to regional destinations, which can facilitate onward travel to India.

Iran's airspace is partially available for cargo and charter flights. The Ministry has advised Indian citizens to refrain from traveling to Iran and has encouraged those currently there to exit via land borders, with assistance from the Embassy. To date, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has helped 2,504 nationals leave Iran through land routes.

Israel's airspace is now open, with limited flights resuming to regional destinations that can connect to India.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is actively monitoring the situation in the Gulf and West Asia, prioritizing the safety and welfare of the Indian community in these areas.

The MEA maintains regular communication with state governments and Union Territory administrations to share information and coordinate efforts effectively. Indian embassies and consulates are operating 24/7 helplines to assist citizens and are in close contact with local authorities.

Updated advisories are being released, providing information on local government regulations, flight statuses, consular services, and various welfare initiatives for the community.