UAE travel: Emirates, flydubai halt Dubai flights temporarily after Iran missile strikes
Widespread disruptions hit Middle East aviation network
DUBAI – Dubai’s aviation sector faced major disruption on Saturday as leading carriers temporarily halted operations following multiple regional airspace closures.
Authorities and airlines moved swiftly to prioritise safety while assisting affected passengers.
The developments came amid escalating tensions across the region that prompted several countries to restrict or shut their airspace, forcing airlines to cancel, reroute or suspend flights.
Flight halt
Dubai’s flagship carrier Emirates confirmed it has temporarily suspended all operations to and from Dubai due to the evolving situation.
The airline said it is actively monitoring developments and coordinating with relevant authorities as conditions continue to change across the Middle East.
Earlier in the day, flydubai also announced it would halt all operations on February 28, citing the same regional airspace restrictions.
What passengers should do
Emirates urged customers to check its travel updates and flight status pages before heading to the airport. The carrier apologised for the disruption and said teams are assisting affected travellers.
Due to multiple regional airspace closures, Emirates has temporarily suspended operations to and from Dubai.
— Emirates Support (@EmiratesSupport) February 28, 2026
Emirates urges customers to check https://t.co/Ucm3UswfVh and https://t.co/yehFUeWZQq for the latest updates before proceeding to the airport.
We are actively monitoring… pic.twitter.com/SLDC7iNaUN
“We apologise to customers affected by disruptions for any inconvenience caused,” the airline said, adding that passengers are being supported with rebooking options, refunds or alternative travel arrangements.
The airline stressed that the safety and security of passengers and crew remain its highest priority.
Across the Gulf, airlines have been adjusting schedules in real time as governments assess security risks and coordinate with aviation regulators.
The widespread closures have triggered a ripple effect across international routes, with carriers suspending services, diverting aircraft and reviewing operational plans while monitoring the evolving security environment.