The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has confirmed that UAE airspace will return to restricted operations after ending its temporary closure on Saturday, February 28. The authorities implemented this special security measure because of fast-changing regional security situations to protect all passengers, aircrews, and flights that operate within the national territory. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) maintains 24-hour surveillance of the situation, which remains stable even though it causes substantial disruptions at the world’s busiest international airports.
Emirates Operates Limited Schedule Until March 7
Emirates has announced that all scheduled flights to and from Dubai remain officially suspended until 11:59 PM (UAE time) on Saturday, March 7, 2026. However, to support essential travel and clear backlogs, the airline is operating a reduced schedule of over 100 flights on March 5 and 6.
Traveler Guidance for Emirates:
- Airport Access: Passengers must only head to the airport if they have been contacted directly by the airline or hold a confirmed booking for the specific limited services operating.
- Transit Passengers: Travelers transiting through Dubai will only be accepted if their onward connecting flight is confirmed and operating.
- Cargo Operations: These limited flights are also prioritizing essential cargo, including pharmaceuticals and perishables.
- Rebooking: Affected passengers can rebook on alternate flights for travel on or before April 30, 2026, or request a full refund via the airline’s website.
Flydubai Resumes Reduced Network Service
Flydubai resumed its restricted flight operations to multiple airports today, which is Thursday, March 5. The airline is expanding its flight network through new routes, which will begin operating after airspace limitations throughout the region are removed. Passengers should expect their flights to take longer because pilots must fly around areas that have flight restrictions. Travelers should check their flight status online before they go to the airport.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, praised the resilience and professionalism of the airport community during this “unprecedented” period. Senior leaders have been present at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC) to assist frontline staff after operations resumed at limited capacity on Monday night.
Griffiths declared that our responsibility first goes to protect the safety of all customers, staff members, and business partners. The public needs to use only confirmed sources for news about schedule changes, which continue to happen.
Airlines work with local authorities to provide accommodation and essential resources to passengers who have been stranded. Most UAE-based airlines, which have suspended flights because of cancellations, will not charge passengers for rebooking, and they have set up special help centers at airports to assist passengers during the recovery process.
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