- Flight Disruptions
- Middle East conflict triggers widespread flight cancellations and limited services
Middle East conflict triggers widespread flight cancellations and limited services
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By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on 16 March 2026
What Happened
Global air travel is disrupted as restrictions over Dubai and Abu Dhabi lead to extensive cancellations and delays. British Airways halted all direct Dubai flights, with limited Muscat–London Heathrow service for existing bookings. Etihad has partially restarted departures from Abu Dhabi. Emirates and Qatar Airways are prioritising repatriation, while Virgin Atlantic has suspended Dubai services. The UK updated its travel advice for the UAE and began charter repatriations; the first flight on 7 March 2026 was delayed by 24 hours, with over 37,000 citizens returned by 8 March.
Flight Disruption Details
Air travel across and through the Middle East is being disrupted by ongoing regional conflict and airspace restrictions, particularly over Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The situation has led to widespread cancellations and delays at key airports in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, with major carriers operating reduced schedules.
British Airways has canceled all direct services to Dubai. The airline is operating limited flights from Muscat to London Heathrow for customers with existing bookings. Etihad Airways has partially resumed operations from Abu Dhabi, prioritising travelers holding confirmed reservations. Emirates and Qatar Airways are focusing on repatriation services rather than full commercial schedules at this time. Emirates has indicated an intention to restore its full network as soon as conditions allow. Virgin Atlantic has suspended its services to Dubai and is working to return affected customers safely.
Authorities in the United Kingdom have updated travel guidance in response to the evolving situation. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises against all non‑essential travel to the UAE and recommends limiting movements or sheltering in place where appropriate. The UK government has also launched charter repatriation flights from the Middle East. The first of these, scheduled for 7 March 2026, departed 24 hours late due to technical issues. By 8 March 2026, more than 37,000 British nationals had been returned, with additional flights planned in the following days.
Passengers with existing bookings are advised to remain in close contact with their airline or travel agent. Under applicable UK rules for package and flight bookings, travelers may be offered alternative arrangements or refunds when trips are canceled or significantly changed. Operations remain fluid, and schedules may change at short notice due to evolving air traffic control measures. Travelers should continue to monitor airline and government updates and check flight status regularly.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
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.
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.
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
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Regional conflict and airspace restrictions
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Not eligible for compensation
Airlines affected
British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Virgin Atlantic
Checked by
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated
16 March 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:
Collect proof that your flight was canceled, e.g. boarding pass, vouchers and any other travel documents.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the cancellation and reasons behind it.
Request an alternate flight to your destination - or a refund.
Make a note of the arrival time at your destination.
Ask the airline to pay for your meals and refreshments.
Don't sign anything or accept any offers that may waive your rights.
Get the airline to provide you with a hotel room, if needed.
Keep your receipts if your canceled flight ends up costing you extra money.
