UAE travel update for March 20 – Check Etihad, Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia flight status
Passengers urged to confirm bookings before heading to airports
DUBAI/ABU DHABI – UAE airlines have been operating limited commercial flight operations following the partial reopening of regional airspace.
Today sees limited schedules operating from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, connecting key international and regional destinations. Major carriers including Etihad Airways, Emirates, flydubai, and Air Arabia continue to coordinate closely with aviation authorities to ensure flights operate only when all safety criteria are met.
Travellers are urged to monitor airline websites, apps, and official communications for real-time updates, as schedules remain subject to change and bookings may be affected.
Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways has been operating limited flights from Abu Dhabi to select destinations, accommodating passengers with confirmed bookings while allowing new ticket purchases online. Travellers are advised not to proceed to the airport unless contacted by Etihad or holding a confirmed booking, and are encouraged to check flight status online for smooth travel.
The airline also issued a warning about fake social media accounts impersonating Etihad, sending fraudulent refund forms. “Etihad will never request passwords, payment details, or sensitive information via social media,” a spokesperson said. Passengers are urged to rely only on the official website and verified accounts for updates.
Passengers with tickets issued on or before 28 February 2026 for travel between 28 February and 15 April 2026 may rebook free of charge until 15 May 2026. Refunds are available through etihad.com/manage, and online services are recommended due to high call volumes. Etihad emphasised that safety remains the absolute priority, with flights operating only once all safety standards are fully met.
Emirates
Emirates is operating a reduced flight schedule from Dubai, offering flexibility for travellers affected by disruptions. Passengers booked between 28 February and 15 April 2026 can rebook flights or request refunds online, with travel allowed up to 31 May. Those with connecting flights are strongly advised not to visit airports unless flights are confirmed.
The airline encourages passengers to use its website and app to manage bookings due to high call volumes. Emirates is coordinating closely with authorities to maintain smooth operations, while travellers are advised to regularly check their flight status online before travelling. Passengers with confirmed flights will continue to receive updates directly via the Emirates App or website notifications.
flydubai
flydubai has resumed operations with a reduced schedule. Travellers are advised not to go to airports unless flights have been confirmed, rebooked, or a revised check-in time has been provided. The airline continues to coordinate with authorities to ensure safe operations, keeping passenger and crew safety as the highest priority.
Customers booked to travel between 28 February and 31 March 2026 may rebook to the same destination within 30 days at no penalty, or request a full refund. Those who booked via travel agents are advised to contact them directly for assistance. Flight status and operational updates should be checked regularly, and contact details kept current to receive alerts. flydubai continues to publish updates as soon as new information becomes available, ensuring passengers remain informed.
Air Arabia
Air Arabia has resumed a limited number of flights from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah to destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Key routes include Vienna, Athens, Milan-Bergamo, Istanbul, Cairo, Addis Ababa, Dhaka, Mumbai, Muscat, Karachi, Riyadh, Colombo, Bangkok, and Tashkent.
Passengers whose flights have been cancelled may choose one of the following: a free date change within 30 days, a full credit voucher, or a full refund to the original payment method. Bookings can be managed online via the Air Arabia website, mobile app, or through travel agents. Travellers are reminded to ensure their contact details are up to date to receive notifications and important updates regarding flight changes.
Air Arabia emphasises that flights are operating subject to operational and regulatory approvals, and safety remains the airline’s top priority. Passengers are encouraged to confirm bookings before heading to airports and follow official communications for smooth travel.