Dutch carrier restarts Dubai flights as Middle East operations gradually return
Saudi routes stabilise while Israel timetable remains limited
DUBAI – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has resumed flights between Amsterdam and Dubai after a brief suspension linked to regional security concerns.
The restart forms part of a phased return to operations across parts of the Middle East. Services to Dubai are currently running on a modified timetable while the airline continues to assess conditions.
The Dutch flag carrier had cancelled flights to Dubai International Airport on January 27 and 28 as part of wider precautionary measures. The airline said geopolitical developments had prompted it to halt several key routes in the Gulf region and avoid flying over large parts of Middle Eastern airspace. Operations are now gradually resuming, with Dubai flights operating between February 1 and February 6 under an adjusted schedule.
Phased restart
KLM had earlier announced on January 24 that it would suspend services to Dubai, Riyadh, Dammam and Tel Aviv until further notice. Since then, the airline has begun restoring connections in stages. Flights to the Saudi cities of Riyadh and Dammam have already resumed, returning to a regular schedule from January 27.
Dubai services are now operating again but remain subject to timetable adjustments through early February. The airline stated that decisions are based on the “current security situation and operational feasibility,” reflecting ongoing monitoring of airspace risks and operational constraints.
Tel Aviv is also seeing a limited return, with KLM indicating it would operate services on February 2 and 3 under a modified schedule. Broader operations to the Israeli destination remain restricted beyond those dates.
Regional caution
KLM’s move comes amid continued schedule changes by international carriers navigating shifting risk assessments across the Middle East. Since late 2023, airlines have periodically suspended routes, rerouted aircraft, or reduced frequencies in response to security alerts, airspace closures, and sudden regional developments that can affect flight corridors with little notice.
The airline said it is maintaining a flexible approach as the situation evolves. It continues to review operational feasibility and security considerations before confirming schedules. The temporary adjustments underline how carriers are balancing network restoration with precautionary planning.
Other airlines have also made recent changes. Air France briefly paused its Dubai service before resuming operations on January 24. Emirates, meanwhile, cancelled several US-bound flights after Storm Fern disrupted travel to cities including New York, Washington DC, Boston, Dallas and Newark.
What passengers need to know
Travellers affected by KLM’s Dubai suspensions are eligible for support measures. The airline is rebooking passengers who were scheduled to travel between January 23 and January 28. Customers may also request refunds if they choose not to travel.
Passengers who incurred additional expenses due to the disruption, such as hotel stays, meals or communication costs, can apply for reimbursement through the airline. KLM said it will continue to inform customers directly of any further schedule changes as operations across the region are reassessed.