The landscape of Middle Eastern aviation remains in flux as regional airspace disruptions continue to dictate the pace of travel. UAE carriers are currently navigating a complex operational environment, pivoting between broad suspensions and the gradual introduction of essential services. While the majority of scheduled operations remain paused, a strategic shift toward repatriation, cargo, and limited passenger flights is underway at major hubs.

The Return of Residents

A coordinated effort is now visible as UAE residents stranded abroad begin their journey home. Utilising a mix of special charters and direct services to Dubai and Fujairah, travellers are also leveraging regional partners like Oman Air and Salam Air to bridge the gap. While airports are slowly coming back online, the transition remains cautious, with a heavy emphasis on safety-first protocols.

Airport Status: Limited Access Only

Flight activity has resumed on a restricted basis across DXB, DWC, AUH, SHJ, and RKT. However, authorities have issued a firm directive: do not travel to any terminal without a confirmed departure.

  • Sharjah Airport is utilising SMS and social media to provide real-time updates.
  • Access Control: Terminals are strictly reserved for passengers with verified, immediate bookings.

Carrier-Specific Updates

Etihadhttps://www.etihad.com/ Airways

The national carrier has extended its suspension of all scheduled Abu Dhabi flights until 6:00 am on Friday, 6 March.

  • Current Focus: Repositioning and repatriation flights are active but subject to rapid change.
  • Policy: Free rebooking is available for tickets issued by 28 Feb for travel through March 10, provided changes are made by 31 March.

Emirates

Dubai’s flagship carrier has grounded scheduled services until 11:59 pm on Saturday, 7 March.

  • City Check-in: All Dubai city hubs are currently shuttered.
  • Refunds: Available for bookings made on or before 12 March, with rebooking options extending to 27 March.

flydubai & Air Arabia

While flydubai has begun a phased resumption to specific destinations as of 5 March, Air Arabia maintains a broader suspension until 3:00 pm on Monday, 9 March. Both airlines warn of longer flight times due to mandatory rerouting around restricted zones. Air Arabia is offering affected flyers a choice between a free date change, a credit voucher, or a full refund.

Global Impact and Indian Carriers

The ripple effect has seen international giants like Lufthansa, KLM, and British Airways pause their UAE routes. However, some connectivity is returning:

  • Virgin Atlantic resumed Heathrow-Dubai services on 3 March.
  • Indian Carriers: IndiGo, Air India Express, and SpiceJet are aggressively deploying special category flights. Specifically, Air India Express is linking Ras Al Khaimah to Delhi, Kochi, and Mumbai through 7 March to assist with the passenger backlog.

Essential Guidance for Travelers

Before attempting to reach any UAE airport, passengers must:

  1. Verify flight status via official airline apps or websites.
  2. Ensure contact details are updated in the Manage Booking section.
  3. Wait for an explicit OK to travel notification from the carrier.

READ MORE: UAE Flights: Air Arabia Starts Resuming Operations on Suspended Flights

Source Gulf News