UAE Flight Operations: Resumptions, Refunds, and Rebooking – Complete Guide for Passengers

All major airports are open for limited repatriation flights; scheduled services remain suspended as airspace closures continue

SHARJAH – The UAE’s aviation sector is gradually returning to partial operations following the recent military conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. With thousands of residents, visitors, and businesspeople stranded or awaiting news on their travel plans, authorities and airlines have begun implementing repatriation flights and passenger assistance programs.

Here is everything you need to know about the current situation, including airport status, airline operations, rebooking policies, and refund procedures.

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Have all UAE airports resumed operations?

Yes, but with limitations. All major airports—including Dubai International (DXB), Al Maktoum International (DWC), Zayed International (AUH), and Sharjah International (SHJ)—have resumed limited operations. The current focus remains on repatriation flights rather than scheduled commercial services.

Have UAE airlines resumed flights?

Local carriers have initiated partial operations, primarily dedicated to repatriating stranded passengers. These include:

• Emirates
• flydubai
• Etihad Airways
• Air Arabia

However, scheduled commercial flights have not yet resumed due to ongoing airspace closures resulting from the military conflict.

When will regular scheduled flights resume?

There is currently no confirmed timeline. Authorities and airlines have stated that regular flight schedules will resume once the airspace is deemed safe and reopened for commercial aviation. Updates will be announced through official channels.

Etihad Airways and Air Arabia have confirmed flight suspensions until Wednesday, with further announcements expected thereafter.

Should I go to the airport if I have a flight in the coming days?

No. Passengers are strongly advised not to proceed to the airport unless they have received direct confirmation from their airline regarding their flight status. This measure is in place to prevent congestion and ensure smooth operations for repatriation flights.

How will I know if my flight is operating?

Airlines are actively contacting passengers who have been rebooked on limited repatriation flights. Only those contacted directly should report to the airport. Passengers are urged to monitor their email, SMS, and official airline communication channels for updates.

Are airlines prioritizing certain passengers?

Yes. Emirates has announced that it will prioritize customers with earlier bookings as it operates a limited number of flights. Other carriers are adopting similar approaches based on original travel dates.

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Rebooking and Refund Policies: Airline-by-Airline Guide

Emirates

• Passengers can rebook to their intended destination for travel on or before March 20.
• If booked through a travel agent, contact the agent directly.
• If booked directly with Emirates, passengers can request a refund by completing the online form on the airline’s website.

flydubai

• Passengers can rebook an alternative flight to the same destination up to 20 days from the original travel date, free of charge.
• Contact the flydubai Contact Centre at (+971) 600 54 44 45, visit their travel shop, or reach out to your travel agent for rebooking or refund assistance.

Etihad Airways

• Guests holding tickets issued on or before February 28, 2026, with original travel dates up to March 7, 2026, may rebook free of charge onto Etihad-operated flights up to March 18, 2026.
• Passengers on flights until March 7 may request a refund through the Etihad website or their travel agent.

Air Arabia

• Travellers with flights departing within the next 24 hours will be contacted directly with alternative options.
• If booked through Air Arabia direct channels, visit the airline’s website to select alternatives.
• Customers who booked through travel agents should contact their agents directly.

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Passenger Support Statistics

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has reported that 20,200 passengers affected by flight disruptions have been provided with temporary accommodation and facilitated rebooking services.

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Final Advice

Authorities continue to urge calm and patience as the situation evolves. Passengers should rely exclusively on official announcements from the GCAA, airports, and airlines for accurate information. Avoid spreading unverified updates and refrain from traveling to airports without confirmed bookings.