UAE FLIGHTS STILL FACING DISRUPTIONS AS MIDDLE EAST AIRSPACE REMAINS UNCERTAIN
Dubai, UAE — August 28, 2026
Travellers flying through the United Arab Emirates are being urged to check their flight status before heading to the airport, as airlines continue to deal with the effects of ongoing regional security concerns and airspace restrictions.
Major UAE carriers including Emirates, Etihad Airways and flydubai have largely restored their operations, but some regional routes continue to experience delays, cancellations and schedule changes.
The disruption is particularly affecting flights connected with parts of the Gulf, where airlines are continuing to monitor airspace conditions and adjust flight paths when necessary.
Dubai feels the impact
The disruption has also had a major effect on Dubai International Airport (DXB). Passenger traffic fell by 31.3% during the first half of 2026, compared with the same period last year, as the regional conflict caused widespread cancellations, rerouting and reduced airline operations.
Despite the difficult first half of the year, Dubai’s aviation sector is showing signs of recovery. Major Middle Eastern airlines have restored a large proportion of their schedules, while passenger numbers began improving as the second quarter progressed.
