UAE travel update for March 18: Check Etihad, Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia flight status
Rebooking and refunds available for disrupted flights across all airlines
DUBAI – UAE airlines have gradually resumed operations following the partial reopening of regional airspace, with flights now operating from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.
Today sees a limited schedule from major carriers including Etihad Airways, Emirates, flydubai, and Air Arabia, connecting key international and regional destinations.
Travellers are advised to stay updated on flight timings as schedules remain fluid, while airlines continue to prioritise passenger safety and offer rebooking or refund options for affected bookings.
Etihad Airways
Etihad is operating a limited schedule from Abu Dhabi to key destinations. Passengers with bookings from 28 February to 31 March 2026 can rebook free until 15 May, and full refunds are available via etihad.com/manage.
Online check-in is unavailable until 21 March, so travellers are advised to arrive at the airport early. Flight status updates and alerts are sent directly to affected passengers, while operations continue under strict safety measures.
Emirates
Emirates is running a reduced schedule from Dubai. Passengers booked between 28 February and 15 April 2026 whose flights have been disrupted can rebook on alternate flights or request a refund, with travel permitted up to 31 May.
Travellers are urged not to go to the airport unless flights are confirmed. Bookings can be managed via emirates.com or the Emirates App, and passengers are encouraged to use online tools due to high call volumes, particularly for connecting flights.
flydubai
flydubai has resumed operations with a reduced schedule. Passengers are advised to travel only if flights are confirmed, rebooked, or a revised check-in time has been received. Bookings from 28 February to 31 March 2026 can be rebooked within 30 days with no penalty, and full refunds are available for affected flights.
UAE residents outside the country with expired residency permits from 28 February 2026 may return until 31 March without a valid re-entry permit. Passengers booked via third parties should contact travel agents for support.
Air Arabia
Air Arabia has resumed limited flights from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah to destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Key destinations include Vienna, Athens, Milan-Bergamo, Istanbul, Cairo, Addis Ababa, Dhaka, Mumbai, Muscat, Karachi, Riyadh, Colombo, Bangkok, and Tashkent.
Passengers on cancelled flights can rebook, request a refund, or receive a full credit voucher. Airlines continue to send direct alerts and updates to ensure smooth travel while maintaining safety as the top priority.