All scheduled Emirates flights to and from Dubai remain suspended until 2359hrs UAE time on 4 March due to airspace closures across the region

All scheduled Emirates flights to and from Dubai remain suspended until 2359hrs UAE time on 4 March due to airspace closures across the region

Emirates Suspends All Scheduled Flights Amid Regional Airspace Closures

All scheduled Emirates flights to and from Dubai remain suspended until 2359hrs UAE time on 4 March 2026, according to the airline's latest update. The suspension follows widespread airspace closures across the Middle East, triggered by escalating tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Dubai Airports confirmed a "limited resumption of operations" on 2 March, permitting only a small number of flights from Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) airports, but full operational normalization remains uncertain.

The crisis has disrupted over 11,000 flights regionally since the conflict began, with 79% of flights to Qatar and 71% to the UAE cancelled as of 2 March, per aviation analytics firm Cirium. Emirates has prioritized rebooking passengers with earlier cancellations, contacting them directly for updated departure times. However, the airline warned customers not to proceed to the airport without explicit confirmation.

Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, has similarly suspended regular commercial flights until 14:00 UAE time on 4 March, though limited cargo and repatriation flights have operated. Qatar Airways remains fully grounded due to closed Qatari airspace, with no resumption date announced. The disruption has stranded tens of thousands of passengers, including over 100,000 UK nationals registered with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for assistance.

Industry analysts caution that prolonged airspace closures could have lasting financial implications. Tony Stanton of Strategic Air noted that extended conflicts may force airlines to "reset" route networks, shifting traffic to alternative hubs and increasing operational costs due to regulatory and insurance adjustments. Meanwhile, airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and Air India have offered passengers flexibility, including free rescheduling or full refunds for affected bookings.

Passengers are advised to monitor airline communications for updates, as operational conditions remain fluid. With regional tensions unresolved, the aviation sector faces continued uncertainty, impacting both short-term revenues and long-term strategic planning.

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