- Flight Disruptions
- Middle East airspace closures disrupt flights; limited Dubai services resume
Middle East airspace closures disrupt flights; limited Dubai services resume
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Possibly eligible for compensation
By Matteo Floris
Last updated on March 3, 2026
20,200
Impacted travelers
2
Affected airports
4
Affected airlines
What Happened
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.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to $650 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
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Flight Disruption Details
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.
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
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Other
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Possibly eligible for compensation
Passengers affected
20200
Airlines affected
Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Flydubai
Airports affected
Dubai International, Dubai World Central
Start date
2026-02-28
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:
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.
