Everything you need to know about airport status, airline policies, refunds, and rebooking as 20,000+ passengers receive support
SHARJAH – The UAE’s aviation sector is operating in a limited capacity as regional carriers focus on repatriating stranded passengers following the outbreak of military conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. With thousands of residents and visitors awaiting clarity on their travel plans, authorities have released detailed guidelines on flight status, refunds, and rebooking.
Here is the complete guide to navigating flight disruptions in the UAE.
Airport Status: What’s Open?
All major UAE airports have resumed limited operations, primarily facilitating repatriation flights. Operational airports include:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
- Zayed International Airport (AUH)
- Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)
Airline Operations: Partial Services Underway
Local carriers have resumed partial operations with a focus on bringing stranded passengers home. Airlines currently operating limited flights include:
- Emirates
- flydubai
- Etihad Airways
- Air Arabia
However, scheduled commercial flights remain suspended due to ongoing airspace closures linked to the military conflict.
When Will Regular Flights Resume?
There is no confirmed timeline for the resumption of full scheduled services. Authorities have stated that regular flights will restart once the airspace is declared safe. Etihad Airways and Air Arabia have confirmed suspensions until Wednesday, with further updates expected thereafter.
Passenger Advisory: Do not proceed to the airport unless you have received direct flight confirmation from your airline.
Passenger Prioritization
Emirates has announced it will prioritize customers with earlier bookings as it operates limited repatriation flights. Other airlines are implementing similar measures based on original travel dates.
How Will You Know Your Flight Status?
Airlines are directly contacting passengers who have been rebooked on operational flights. Only those contacted should report to the airport to avoid congestion.
Rebooking and Refund Policies: Airline-by-Airline
Emirates
- Rebooking: Passengers can rebook travel to their intended destination on or before March 20.
- Refunds: If booked directly with Emirates, complete the online refund form. If booked through a travel agent, contact the agent directly.
flydubai
- Rebooking: Free rebooking on alternative flights to the same destination up to 20 days from the original travel date.
- Contact: Call Center at (+971) 600 54 44 45, visit a flydubai travel shop, or contact your travel agent.
- Refunds: Process through the same channels.
Etihad Airways
- Eligibility: Tickets issued on or before February 28, 2026, with travel dates up to March 7, 2026.
- Rebooking: Free rebooking on Etihad-operated flights up to March 18, 2026.
- Refunds: Available through the Etihad website or travel agent for flights until March 7.
Air Arabia
- Immediate Flights: Passengers with departures within 24 hours will be contacted directly with options.
- Direct Bookings: Visit the Air Arabia website to select alternatives if departure is within 24 hours.
- Travel Agent Bookings: Contact your agent directly for assistance.
Passenger Support Statistics
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has reported that 20,200 passengers affected by flight rescheduling have received temporary accommodation and facilitated rebooking services.
Key Takeaways for Passengers
- ✅ Do not go to the airport without airline confirmation
- ✅ Monitor email and SMS for direct airline communication
- ✅ Check rebooking eligibility based on original ticket issue and travel dates
- ✅ Contact travel agents for bookings made through third parties
- ✅ Await official announcements for regular flight resumption timelines
