UAE flag carrier Emirates has temporarily suspended operations to and from Dubai following multiple airspace closures across the region, as tensions escalated after Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent missile launches.
In a statement, Emirates said it was “monitoring the situation and engaging with relevant authorities” as developments unfold. The airline urged passengers to check its website for the latest updates and confirmed it is assisting affected customers with rebooking options, refunds, or alternative travel arrangements.
UAE-based Air Arabia also announced the temporary suspension of flights to and from the UAE, citing the deteriorating security environment. Authorities confirmed that flight operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) have been halted until further notice.
The disruption follows Israeli attacks against Iran early Saturday, which an Israeli defence official said were carried out in coordination with the United States. In response, Iran launched missile strikes targeting several countries in the region.
The UAE government said it intercepted two waves of missile launches originating from Iran. Officials expressed condolences to the family of a Pakistani national who died as a result of the attacks.
In a strongly worded statement, the UAE condemned what it described as “blatant Iranian missile attacks” targeting the country and other regional states. The government said it considers the actions a violation of national sovereignty and a breach of international law and the Charter of the United Nations.
Authorities sought to reassure residents and visitors that the internal situation remains stable. They said security agencies are closely monitoring developments and that public safety continues to be a top priority.
The temporary suspension of flights marks a significant disruption for Dubai, one of the world’s busiest international aviation hubs and a key transit point linking Europe, Asia, and Africa. Airlines across the region are reassessing flight paths and schedules as airspace closures and security concerns affect operations.
Passengers scheduled to travel through the UAE have been advised to stay in contact with airlines and monitor official announcements for further updates. Aviation analysts said the duration of the suspension will likely depend on how quickly regional tensions de-escalate and airspace restrictions are lifted.
The latest escalation adds to broader geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East, with governments across the region urging restraint while bolstering security measures.
