Dubai Travel in Turmoil as Emirates Halts Flights Following Iran Strikes
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated dramatically after the United States and Israel launched a major military operation against Iran in the early hours of February 28, 2026. President Donald Trump announced in a video on Truth Social that the US military is prepared for a massive and ongoing campaign, marking a significant escalation just eight months after the Twelve-Day War in June 2025, which saw attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Airspace Closures and Flight Cancellations
In response to the conflict, the United Arab Emirates, along with Bahrain, Iraq, and Qatar, has closed its airspace as a precautionary measure. This has led to widespread travel disruptions, particularly affecting Dubai, a top global tourist destination located approximately 130 kilometres from Iran across the Gulf of Oman and Persian Gulf.
Emirates, a major carrier in the region, has temporarily suspended all operations to and from Dubai, citing active monitoring of the situation. Similarly, Wizz Air has halted flights to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman until March 7, while Virgin Atlantic cancelled its London to Dubai service and is rerouting to avoid Iraqi airspace.
Other airlines affected include:
- British Airways: Cancelled flights from London Heathrow to Bahrain and Tel Aviv until March 3.
- Air Canada, Eurowings, Finnair, and Swiss: All cancelled flights to and from Dubai.
- Air France: Cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut.
- Air India: Suspended all Middle East flights.
- Lufthansa: Halted services to Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Oman.
- Qatar Airways: Temporarily suspended due to Qatari airspace closure.
Impact on Tourism and Travel Safety
Dubai, which welcomed 19.5 million international visitors in 2025 and is a favourite among British tourists, faces extreme disruptions. With airspace closures considered extraordinary circumstances, travellers may not be eligible for refunds unless the Foreign Office issues a travel warning. Currently, no such advisory exists for the UAE, meaning holidaymakers risk financial loss if they cancel trips.
The Foreign Office has, however, updated its advice to warn against all travel to Israel and Palestine due to the escalation. For Turkey, which borders Iran, no specific warnings are in place, though travellers are advised to avoid areas near the Syrian border.
Passengers are urged to check with airlines for the latest flight information and review their insurance policies for coverage details. As the situation unfolds, it remains unclear when UAE airspace will reopen, leaving thousands of travellers in limbo.
