UAE airlines extend suspensions as US joins Iran-Israel conflict
No transit permitted for affected destinations via UAE airports
DUBAI: All airlines in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have extended flight suspensions and rerouted key services after the United States joined Israel in carrying out strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
The ripple effect of the escalating regional conflict has led to significant airspace closures across the Middle East, disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers.
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, Dubai’s flagship Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia, and Wizz Air have all suspended flights to multiple destinations, including Iran, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and parts of Eastern Europe. The airlines cited safety concerns, regional instability, and sudden airspace shutdowns. The UAE government, along with other Gulf nations, has urged restraint and called for immediate de-escalation.
UAE airlines extend flights suspensions
Etihad Airways confirmed that all flights between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv have been suspended until 15 July. “Guests transiting through Abu Dhabi on their way to cancelled destinations will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin,” said a spokesperson, adding that alternative arrangements are being provided.
Etihad also cancelled flight EY652 from Kuwait to Abu Dhabi on 22 June due to a technical issue, though it was unrelated to the conflict. The airline continues to monitor developments in coordination with aviation authorities.
Emirates has temporarily halted all operations to Tehran (Iran), Baghdad and Basra (Iraq) until 30 June. The airline is actively rerouting other services to avoid flying over restricted areas.
Low-cost carrier flydubai has suspended flights to and from Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, and St. Petersburg through 30 June 2025. Transit passengers to these destinations will not be accepted from their origin airports. The airline advised customers to check rebooking options on its website and ensure their contact details are updated.
Sharjah-based Air Arabia has followed suit, suspending services to Iran, Iraq, Russia, Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan until the end of June. Flights to Jordan are also on hold until 25 June 2025. The airline warned that multiple other services could experience delays or rerouting.
Wizz Air has extended its suspension of flights to Tel Aviv and Amman until 15 September 2025 and is diverting routes to avoid Israeli, Iranian, Iraqi, and Syrian airspace.
International carriers react
The crisis has also impacted global airlines operating in the region. British Airways has paused flights to Dubai, Doha, and Bahrain. United Airlines has stopped services to Dubai, while American Airlines has suspended its Doha operations. Air Canada, Air France-KLM, and Finnair have also adjusted or halted certain routes to the UAE.
This marks the first time in nearly two years that major international carriers have pulled back from the UAE due to a regional conflict. Aviation analysts warn that US involvement may worsen the situation, raising the possibility of extended disruptions.
Passenger advisory
All airlines are urging passengers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport. Travellers connecting through UAE airports to affected destinations will not be accepted at the point of origin. Airlines are advising customers to update contact details for timely notifications and to explore rebooking or refund options.
With several Gulf air corridors now rerouted over safer zones such as the Caspian Sea and Egypt, airlines continue to adapt amid volatile conditions. Passenger and crew safety remain the top priority.