Cathay Pacific suspends Dubai flights 28 Feb–5 Mar amid regional risk
By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on 2 March 2026
Cathay Pacific has suspended all flights to and from Dubai from 28 February through 5 March 2026 due to deteriorating regional safety conditions and airspace restrictions. The airline is also pausing broader Middle East operations, including Riyadh and freighter services via Al Maktoum International. A ticket waiver allows rebooking, rerouting, or refunds, with accommodations on Hong Kong–Dubai itineraries extended through 7 March. At Hong Kong International Airport, at least 27 flights bound for Middle Eastern cities including Riyadh, Doha, and Dubai were canceled.
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Cathay Pacific has suspended all flights to and from Dubai from 28 February through 5 March 2026, citing heightened regional risks, including military activity and extensive airspace closures. The airline stated that passenger safety is its top priority. Customers holding tickets on the Hong Kong–Dubai route may rebook, reroute, or request a refund without fees under a published waiver policy. These accommodations extend to affected travel on this route through 7 March 2026.
In addition to the Dubai suspension, Cathay Pacific has paused operations across parts of the Middle East. The carrier halted both passenger and cargo services involving Riyadh and also suspended freighter operations routed through Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. The airline introduced fee waivers for rebooking and rerouting on flights scheduled from Saturday through Tuesday while it reviews conditions before resuming services.
Operational impacts are visible at Hong Kong International Airport, where at least 27 flights bound for Middle Eastern destinations, including Riyadh, Doha, and Dubai, were canceled. Some travelers faced disrupted connections; one passenger rebooked to 4 March was advised accommodation would be at their own expense, with the option to return to their origin instead.
Cathay Pacific advises customers with bookings beyond 5 March to monitor updates and review the latest guidance on its platform. Passengers whose itineraries fall within the suspension window or who are affected by canceled services can make use of the carrier’s waiver options for rebooking, rerouting, or refunds.
Key details:
- Suspension period for Dubai services: 28 February–5 March 2026
- Waiver coverage for Hong Kong–Dubai tickets: through 7 March 2026
- Additional suspensions: services involving Riyadh; freighter routes via Al Maktoum International Airport
- Noted airport impact: cancellations at Hong Kong International Airport
Travelers should check their booking status regularly and follow airline instructions for available alternatives.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.
No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
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
Disruption:
Cancellation
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Flights affected:
27
Status:
Current disruption
Start date:
2026-02-28
End date:
2026-03-05
Airlines affected:
Cathay Pacific
Airports affected:
Hong Kong International Airport, Al Maktoum International Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
2 March 2026
