Air travel across the United Arab Emirates continues to face disruptions as escalating tensions in the Gulf region affect airline schedules and airport operations. Authorities have confirmed that airports are functioning, but with limited flight operations as airlines gradually restore services while following strict safety protocols.
Operations at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport are currently running under adjusted schedules. While flights have resumed, the airports are not operating at full capacity. Travellers have been advised not to visit the airport unless they hold a confirmed flight ticket.
Airport authorities recently confirmed that more than 1,140 flights were handled within 84 hours to help restore connectivity and assist stranded travellers in reaching their destinations.
Airlines Operating Limited Schedules
Major UAE carriers including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia are currently operating reduced schedules while closely monitoring the situation.
Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline, has prioritised passengers whose travel plans were disrupted earlier due to the regional tensions. The airline has advised passengers to check their flight status through official channels before travelling to the airport.
Meanwhile, Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, has released a revised flight schedule valid through March 15. The airline is working to accommodate passengers on available flights and has introduced flexible rebooking and refund options. Current departures from Abu Dhabi include major global destinations such as London, New York City, and Paris, along with Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad.
Low-cost carrier flydubai is also operating limited flights. Passengers who booked travel between February 28 and March 31 have been offered the option to rebook to the same destination within 30 days.
Similarly, Air Arabia is continuing limited services from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah to selected international destinations until March 22. Routes currently operating include cities such as Vienna, Dhaka, Cairo, Athens, Milan, Amman, Nairobi, Islamabad, Karachi, and Bangkok.
Scam Warning for Travellers
Airlines have also issued warnings about online scams targeting stranded passengers affected by flight disruptions. In particular, Etihad Airways cautioned travellers about fake social media accounts and fraudulent messages posing as airline representatives offering help with ticket changes or refunds.
Authorities said scammers are contacting travellers through messaging platforms and social media, attempting to obtain personal details under the pretext of assisting with flight bookings or refunds.
Passengers are advised to verify information only through official airline websites or customer service channels and avoid sharing sensitive information online.
As the regional situation remains fluid, travellers are encouraged to stay updated with airline advisories and avoid unnecessary travel until flight operations fully stabilise.