Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) have begun a limited resumption of flight operations as of the evening of March 2, 2026. This follows a three-day total shutdown caused by escalating regional conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
Only a “small number” of flights are currently authorized to operate. These are primarily repatriation and special flights intended to assist the hundreds of thousands of stranded passengers.
Emirates resumed a limited schedule, giving priority to passengers with existing bookings.
Operating select flights, specifically targeting routes to Russia (Moscow, Kazan, etc.) and recovering flights from various regional locations.
Etihad Airways resumed limited operations from Abu Dhabi, mainly for evacuations to cities like Paris, London, and Mumbai.
Regular scheduled commercial services remain largely suspended until further notice. Air Arabia has suspended all UAE flights until at least 3:00 PM on March 4.Â
Authorities and airlines strongly advise passengers not to proceed to DXB or DWC unless they have been contacted directly with a confirmed departure time.
The situation remains highly dynamic due to the security climate, with over 90% of scheduled flights still facing cancellation or delay.
By Anthony Solly
