Air travel to and from the United Arab Emirates is experiencing widespread disruptions as airlines adjust schedules in response to ongoing regional tensions and intermittent airspace closures across the Middle East. Several carriers continue limited operations, while others have temporarily suspended flights to ensure safety and compliance with aviation regulations.
UAE-based carriers remain the backbone of regional connectivity. Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia are operating flights on reduced schedules, with revised timetables to accommodate changes in airspace availability. Air Arabia has expanded operations to 44 destinations from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah, offering travelers continued access to key Middle Eastern, Asian, and European destinations.
Several international airlines have temporarily suspended flights to the UAE amid security and logistical concerns. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has cancelled all flights to Dubai, Riyadh, and Dammam until March 28, 2026. British Airways has paused operations to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, citing regional instability. Other European and Asian carriers have adjusted their schedules or temporarily halted flights depending on airspace restrictions and government advisories.
African airlines continue to provide vital links between the continent and the UAE. Ethiopian Airlines operates flights from Addis Ababa to Dubai, while Kenya Airways maintains daily connections between Nairobi and Dubai. RwandAir serves the Kigali–Dubai route, and EgyptAir continues to fly between Cairo and UAE airports. Royal Air Maroc connects Casablanca to Dubai and other Gulf hubs. These routes remain critical for business, tourism, and the movement of migrant workers from Africa to the Gulf.
The ongoing disruptions are largely due to geopolitical tensions and the closure of airspace in several Middle Eastern countries. Airlines have rerouted flights to avoid restricted areas, resulting in longer travel times, increased fuel costs, and changes to previously scheduled departures and arrivals. In some cases, flights have been temporarily suspended to ensure the safety of passengers and crew while alternative routes are identified.
Travelers are advised to check the latest flight schedules directly with airlines, as timetables are subject to change on short notice. Passengers are also warned to be cautious of unofficial booking offers and potential scams, which have reportedly increased amid the current travel uncertainty.
Airlines are gradually resuming operations where possible, prioritizing routes with the highest demand. UAE airports continue to function as major hubs for connecting flights between Asia, Europe, and Africa, although capacities remain lower than normal. International authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and adjustments to flight schedules are expected to continue in response to changing regional conditions.
Despite these challenges, connectivity between Africa and the UAE remains largely intact through the continent’s leading carriers. Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, EgyptAir, and Royal Air Maroc provide a network of regular services that facilitate commerce, tourism, and the travel needs of expatriate communities. The continuity of these flights underscores the UAE’s role as a major regional hub and highlights the resilience of African carriers in maintaining international connectivity amid geopolitical disruptions.
Passengers planning trips to or from the UAE are encouraged to verify flight information ahead of travel, monitor airline updates, and allow for additional time due to potential delays. While limited operations continue to support essential travel, ongoing regional tensions are expected to affect flight schedules in the coming weeks.
Sources: Times of India, Times of India, Times of India, CN Traveler, Travel and Tour World, The Star Kenya, Capital FM Kenya, FCM
