UAE airports Monday update: Airspace closures halt flights, suspensions continue

Flight operations across the UAE remain suspended on Monday as multiple regional airspace closures continue to disrupt schedules, authorities and airlines confirmed.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) said the decision follows a thorough assessment of security and operational risks and was taken in full coordination with national and international authorities. The regulator stressed that the safety of passengers, flight crews, and the protection of UAE airspace remain top priorities.

The GCAA added it is closely coordinating with airports and airlines to synchronise schedules, activate emergency plans, and ensure a swift return to normal operations. Passengers have been urged to follow official updates through approved channels and contact their respective airlines for the latest information.

All major UAE airports have temporarily halted flights:

Authorities said all airports are working closely with airlines to minimise disruption, manage passenger flow, and prevent congestion in terminals.

Emirates suspends all Dubai flights until 15:00 on March 3 due to regional airspace closures. Affected travellers can rebook flights up to March 20 or request refunds for direct bookings; travel agent bookings should contact their agents. All Dubai city check-in points remain closed. Passengers should check emirates.com and email for updates.

Etihad Airways has suspended all flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 14:00 UAE time on Tuesday, 3 March, due to ongoing regional airspace restrictions. Those with tickets issued on or before 28 February, for travel up to 7 March, may rebook free of charge until 18 March or request a refund. Passengers are advised to check flight status online and keep contact details updated

flydubai has suspended all flights to and from Dubai until 3:00 PM UAE time on 3 March due to the UAE airspace closure. Passengers are advised to rebook within 20 days, update contact details, check flight status, or contact flydubai for assistance. The safety of passengers and crew remains the top priority.

Air Arabia has suspended all flights to and from the UAE until 15:00 on 3 March due to regional airspace restrictions. Flights to Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq remain suspended until 4 March. Passengers will be notified of alternative arrangements via email and SMS, while those booked through travel agents should contact them directly.

Major international airlines including Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, and Pakistan International Airlines announced flight suspensions, cancellations or reroutings to and from the UAE and the wider Gulf region. Passengers are advised to check flight status before travelling.

The GCAA confirmed that the UAE has covered all expenses for passengers affected by the airspace closures. Transit passengers were provided accommodation, meals and refreshments, and airlines facilitated rebooking in line with operational plans.

Over the past few hours, airports and carriers handled approximately 20,200 passengers. Integrated measures, including rerouting flights between airports, accelerating rescheduling, and enhancing terminal coordination, have been implemented to reduce congestion and maintain safety.

The authority reiterated that passengers should obtain updates exclusively from official channels and contact airlines directly for booking or schedule information.