- Flight Disruptions
- UAE resumes limited flights after 48-hour shutdown; disruption ongoing
UAE resumes limited flights after 48-hour shutdown; disruption ongoing
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Checked by Matteo Floris
Last updated on March 3, 2026
2
Affected airports
9
Affected airlines
2
Affected airports
9
Affected airlines
What Happened
Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) restarted a limited number of flights on March 2 following a 48-hour suspension linked to regional strikes. Emirates and flydubai resumed some services, while Etihad planned partial operations from March 3. Authorities advised passengers to go to the airport only with confirmed departures. Over 13,000 cancellations were reported after the initial weekend of military strikes, with airlines including Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta, United, and Air India suspending regional services. Air Arabia maintained restrictions through March 3–4 on select routes.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to US$650 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
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Flight Disruption Details
Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) restarted a limited number of flights on the evening of March 2 after a full 48-hour suspension of operations. The halt and subsequent gradual restart followed regional strikes that led to airspace closures and widespread disruption.
Emirates and flydubai resumed selected services on March 2, and Etihad Airways said it would reintroduce some operations from March 3. Authorities urged travelers not to go to the airports unless they had direct confirmation of a scheduled departure from their airline.
The broader disruption began with an initial shutdown of flights across the UAE in response to escalating hostilities. This led to extensive cancellations and left many travelers stranded. In the aftermath of the initial weekend of military strikes, more than 13,000 flights were canceled globally. Gulf carriers including Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai were among those affected. Governments organized evacuation flights, and repatriation efforts were reported for various foreign nationals.
Airlines outside the Middle East also adjusted operations. Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta, United, and Air India suspended flights to the region during the airspace closures. The reroutings and diversions required alternative paths and additional fuel, adding operational complexity.
Dubai Airports stated that safety measures remained in place and the situation was fluid. Passengers were told to monitor official airline communications for the latest updates. Local hotels and services offered temporary accommodation to support stranded customers.
Air Arabia announced continuing restrictions, pausing flights to and from the UAE until 15:00 UAE time on March 3, and suspending services between the UAE and Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq until March 4.
With only a limited service currently operating and multiple carriers maintaining suspensions or restrictions, travelers should check for confirmed itineraries and stay alert to schedule changes as operations gradually resume.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Cancellations
Cause
Other
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
May qualify for compensation
Airlines affected
Emirates, flydubai, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia, Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta, United, Air India
Airports affected
Dubai International, Dubai World Central
Cities affected
Dubai
Countries affected
UAE, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Iraq
Checked by
Matteo Floris
Date updated
March 3, 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
