Dubai Airports Suspend Operations Amid Rising Tensions

Flight Operations Halted at Dubai Airports

Authorities announced on Saturday, February 28, that flight operations at both Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport have been suspended indefinitely. This decision comes in light of escalating tensions between the US-Israel alliance and Iran, leading to a closure of airspace by various nations due to increased military activity. The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority declared the airspace closure as a precautionary measure following Iranian missile strikes across several Gulf nations, which were a reaction to coordinated operations by the US and Israel earlier that day.

Dubai Airports issued a statement on social media advising travelers to refrain from heading to the airport and to check with their airlines for the latest updates. Another advisory reiterated: “Guests are advised not to travel to the airport, and to check with their airlines for flight updates.”

Airlines Suspend Services Due to Airspace Restrictions

Airlines Halt Flights

In response to the ongoing airspace restrictions and heightened tensions, several airlines, including Emirates and flydubai, have suspended their flights to and from the UAE. Other international carriers with routes linked to Dubai and various Middle Eastern destinations have also canceled or rerouted flights, as airspace over Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan, and Israel is restricted. Passengers with connecting flights through Dubai from regions such as India, Europe, Africa, and Asia have reported numerous cancellations and significant delays, prompting airlines to advise travelers to confirm their flight status before heading to the airport.

Travel Advisory Issued for Passengers

Travel Advisory

Reports of long queues at Dubai airports have emerged as travelers await further instructions. Authorities emphasized that the suspension is a measure to protect civil aviation while they evaluate the changing risks. In India, airlines such as IndiGo and Tata group’s Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to West Asia, while SpiceJet has indicated that some of its services may be affected. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is reviewing the situation and has instructed airlines to ensure timely rerouting and diversions in accordance with safety protocols.