UAE Airlines Resume Limited Flights Amid Middle East Conflict
Following escalating Middle East tensions and airspace closures, UAE-based airlines Etihad and Emirates have begun a limited resumption of flights from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, respectively. While commercial operations remain suspended, special flights are being operated to help stranded passengers depart, with full service expected to resume gradually.
Key Highlights
- UAE airlines resume limited flight operations.
- Special flights are assisting stranded passengers.
- Airspace closures caused widespread flight disruptions.
- Full flight services expected to resume soon.
- Airlines offer rebooking and refund options.
The Middle East conflict has led to significant disruptions in air travel, prompting UAE airlines like Etihad and Emirates to gradually resume limited flight operations from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Following coordinated strikes by the US and Israel on Iran, and subsequent retaliatory actions, numerous countries in the region, including the UAE, closed their airspace. This led to widespread flight cancellations and stranded passengers globally.
Etihad Airways announced a limited resumption of flight operations from Abu Dhabi, with special flights being operated to assist stranded passengers. While all regular commercial flights remained suspended until March 3, repositioning, cargo, and repatriation flights were scheduled with strict operational and safety approvals [7, 10, 23]. The airline's first major passenger service since the suspension was lifted was an Airbus A380 bound for London Heathrow [18]. Etihad is offering free rebooking for eligible tickets and full refunds for flights until March 7 [10, 23].
Similarly, Emirates announced a limited number of flights would begin operating from Dubai on the evening of March 2. Priority was given to customers with earlier bookings, and passengers rebooked on these flights were contacted directly. Dubai Airports confirmed a limited resumption of operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) [19, 25, 26].
Major Middle Eastern airports, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, experienced significant disruptions. Dubai International Airport, one of the world's busiest, suspended operations for a period [9, 17]. Abu Dhabi International Airport also faced closures and operational changes [24]. The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced exceptional flight operations at UAE airports to allow stranded passengers to depart [11, 19].
The impact of the conflict on air travel has been severe, with thousands of flights cancelled globally. The Middle East's airspace closures created the biggest disruption since the COVID-19 pandemic, stranding hundreds of thousands of passengers and impacting global supply chains [6, 12, 17, 20, 29]. Many flights were rerouted to avoid closed airspace, leading to increased travel time, fuel costs, and financial losses for airlines [7, 29].
While specific dates for the full resumption of normal flight operations were not confirmed, the gradual restart of services by Etihad and Emirates signifies a cautious return to normalcy. Travelers are advised to check their flight status directly with airlines and to avoid proceeding to airports unless they have confirmed departure details [19, 25, 28].
The original article from Hindustan Times was published on March 2, 2026, at 8:39:56 PM IST, reporting on these developments as 'live updates'. [5]
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were flights suspended from Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Flights were suspended due to widespread airspace closures across the Middle East caused by escalating geopolitical tensions and military actions between Iran, the US, and Israel. These closures were a precautionary measure to ensure safety.
Are all flights to and from the UAE now operating normally?
No, airlines are currently operating a limited number of flights. While some services have resumed, regular commercial operations are still suspended or operating with significant disruptions. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates.
What are my options if my flight was cancelled?
Airlines like Etihad and Emirates are offering options for rebooking flights free of charge or providing full refunds for eligible tickets. Passengers are advised to check their airline's specific policies and contact them directly for assistance.