Middle East airspace closures disrupt flights; limited Dubai services resume

Airspace closures across parts of the Middle East from 28 February caused widespread cancellations, diversions and airport shutdowns, including at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC). Limited services began to resume on 2 March, while some airlines kept regular operations suspended until at least 3 p.m. on 3 March. Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad and Flydubai were among those affected. Authorities arranged shelter for about 20,200 stranded transit passengers, and repatriation flights were coordinated by several countries.

Airspace restrictions implemented from 28 February led to extensive flight disruption across the Middle East. Authorities in Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates closed their skies, resulting in grounded and diverted flights and disrupting traffic through major hubs, notably Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Dubai’s airports—Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC)—halted operations entirely during the initial phase. By 2 March, after roughly 48 hours of shutdown, a limited number of flights began operating again at both airports. Airlines, including Emirates and Flydubai, indicated that regular services would remain suspended until at least 3 p.m. (UAE time) on 3 March, and passengers were advised not to travel to the airport unless contacted by their airline.

The disruption extended well beyond cancellations. Numerous flights were diverted midair, with some passengers spending up to 14 hours in the air without reaching their planned destination. Official estimates referenced in the reporting indicated thousands of cancellations across the region; some figures pointed to more than 3,400, while others cited up to 3,200.

Dubai International Airport also experienced operational impact from damage attributed to a drone strike, which caused structural harm, injured four staff members, and further affected airport operations.

Community and official responses were mobilized to assist stranded travelers. The UAE’s civil aviation authorities organized shelter for approximately 20,200 transit passengers. Local residents and businesses also offered temporary accommodation to those unable to travel.

International governments, including those of the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Czech Republic and the Philippines, coordinated evacuation and repatriation flights. While a limited number of such services departed with government support, most commercial operations remained suspended during the period covered.

Passengers were urged to follow official UAE government channels for updates, avoid heading to airports prematurely, and liaise directly with their airlines regarding rebooking and refunds. The situation remained dynamic as partial operations resumed amid ongoing regional uncertainty.