UAE Flights: Emirates & Etihad Schedules, Status & Travel Updates

UAE Flights Update: Emirates and Etihad Resume Limited Schedules Amid Airspace Disruptions

As regional tensions continue to impact air travel across the Middle East, both Emirates and Etihad Airways are operating reduced flight schedules. The situation remains fluid, with airlines prioritizing passenger safety and closely monitoring airspace restrictions. Travellers planning to fly to or through the United Arab Emirates are strongly advised to confirm their flight status directly with their airline before travelling to the airport.

The disruptions stem from ongoing regional developments and the threat of armed conflict, prompting a cautious approach to flight operations. On March 2, 2026, the U.S. Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. Government personnel and family members from the UAE due to the threat of armed conflict, a move that underscores the heightened security concerns. The State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for the UAE, citing the threat of armed conflict and terrorism.

Emirates Navigating a Reduced Network

Dubai-based Emirates has partially resumed flights after a period of significant disruption. Though, the airline is operating on a reduced schedule, and passengers are urged to check their flight status via email notifications, the Emirates website, or through travel advisories. Emirates is actively contacting passengers whose flights are affected, and those with direct bookings are advised to reach out to the airline for rebooking assistance. Passengers who booked through travel agents should contact their agent directly.

Emirates is offering flexibility for passengers impacted by the disruptions. Tickets booked between February 28 and March 31, 2026, can be rescheduled without change fees for travel on or before April 30, 2026. Rebooking can be managed through the Emirates call centre or via travel agents. Full refunds are also available for cancelled flights or for those who booked travel within the specified period, accessible through the Emirates refund form or travel agent.

Etihad Airways Restores Limited Services

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has also resumed a limited flight schedule to a number of international destinations. The airline emphasizes that passengers should only travel if they have a confirmed booking or have been directly contacted by Etihad.

Currently, Etihad is operating flights to cities including Amsterdam, Athens, Bangkok, Barcelona, Beijing, and many others, though not all destinations are served daily. The airline stresses that flights remain subject to operational approvals and the evolving regional airspace situation.

Etihad is providing guidance to passengers, including the importance of checking flight status on etihad.com, ensuring updated contact details in bookings, and taking advantage of rebooking flexibility. Tickets issued on or before February 28, 2026, for travel up to March 21, 2026, can be rebooked free of charge for travel until May 15, 2026. Passengers with flights scheduled until March 21 may request refunds through the airline’s refund form or via their travel agent.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: What We Know

Here’s a breakdown of what is confirmed and what remains unclear regarding the situation:

Confirmed:

Both Emirates and Etihad are operating reduced flight schedules.
The U.S. State Department has ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel from the UAE.
A Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory is in effect for the UAE.
Flexible rebooking and refund options are available for affected passengers.
Regional airspace restrictions are impacting flight operations.

Unclear:

The exact duration of the airspace restrictions remains uncertain.
The full extent of the impact on flight schedules beyond the current timeframe is unknown.
Specific details regarding the nature of the threat prompting the State Department’s advisory were not provided.
The long-term implications of the regional tensions on air travel are yet to be determined.

Aviation Safety Concerns and Regional Context

The disruptions to air travel are occurring against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) recommending caution for U.S. Air carriers operating in the Middle East, including the UAE. This advisory reflects concerns about potential risks to aviation safety.

The current situation follows the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, 2026, which has led to an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks and significant disruptions to commercial flights. The Iranian regime has publicly stated its intention to target locations in the UAE associated with the United States, further escalating the security concerns.

According to reports, Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest flight hubs, has seen an 85% drop in scheduled flights since February 28. More than 21,000 flights have been cancelled across the region since the beginning of the conflict.

What Passengers Should Do Now

Given the dynamic nature of the situation, passengers travelling to or through the UAE should take the following steps:

Check Flight Status: Regularly check the status of your flight with your airline.
Update Contact Information: Ensure your contact details are up-to-date in your booking.
Be Prepared for Delays or Cancellations: Allow for potential delays or cancellations and have alternative travel plans in mind.
Follow Airline Communications: Pay close attention to communications from your airline regarding any changes to your flight schedule.
Avoid Unnecessary Airport Visits: Do not travel to the airport unless your flight has been confirmed.

The situation remains under close observation, and airlines are committed to providing updates as they become available. Passengers are encouraged to exercise patience and understanding as the industry navigates these challenging circumstances.