Dubai Airports to resume limited flights tonight as GCAA launches exceptional operations
Move aims to ease congestion and assist affected passengers
DUBAI – The Dubai Airports has confirmed that a limited resumption of operations will begin on the evening of 2 March, allowing a small number of flights to depart from Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC).
The move comes as aviation authorities work to restore services following recent regional disruptions. Travellers have been strongly advised not to proceed to the airports unless directly contacted by their airlines with confirmed departure details.
The update coincides with an announcement from the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which said exceptional flight operations have commenced across the country’s airports to assist passengers stranded due to the situation.
Limited resumption
Dubai Airports said only a restricted number of flights will operate during the initial phase of the restart. The operator stressed that schedules will remain tightly controlled as airlines coordinate departures and manage passenger flows.
Officials emphasised that passengers should wait for direct communication from their respective carriers before heading to DXB or DWC. The precaution is intended to prevent overcrowding at terminals and ensure smoother processing for those cleared to travel.
The gradual restart reflects a cautious approach as authorities prioritise safety, operational readiness and orderly movement of travellers.
Exceptional flights
In a separate statement issued on Monday, the GCAA confirmed the launch of exceptional flight operations at UAE airports. The authority said the measure is designed to enable stranded passengers affected by recent regional developments to depart according to schedules that airlines will communicate individually.
بدء تشغيل رحلات استثنائية بمطارات الدولة.
— الهيئة العامة للطيران المدني (@gcaauae) March 2, 2026
يرجى عدم التوجه للمطار إلا بعد تواصل شركة الطيران معكم وتأكيد موعد رحلتكم لضمان انسيابية الإجراءات.
Exceptional flights are now operating at UAE airports.
Do not proceed to the airport until your airline contacts you with confirmed… pic.twitter.com/AVv8mMqVcc
Passenger advisory
The regulator reiterated that affected travellers must not proceed to airports until they receive official notification of their flight timings and details from their airlines. Compliance with this guidance, the authority said, is essential to avoid congestion and maintain efficient airport operations.
The GCAA expressed appreciation for passengers’ cooperation during the disruption, noting that adherence to official instructions plays a central role in facilitating procedures at airports nationwide.
Aviation authorities and airport operators continue to monitor the situation closely while coordinating with airlines to expand operations when conditions allow. Further updates are expected as flight schedules stabilise and additional services are gradually reinstated.