Airspace shutdowns across the Middle East disrupt global flight corridors, triggering reroutes and advisories for travellers
Airspace across several Gulf nations saw partial closures and restrictions on Saturday as escalating tensions involving Israel, the United States and Iran began impacting commercial aviation routes, according to official advisories and global flight tracking data.
Multiple countries closed or restricted airspace
Dubai’s airspace has been temporarily shut, with operations at both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) significantly affected. Authorities confirmed that multiple flights have been grounded as a precaution amid evolving regional security developments.
In a statement, the Dubai Media Office said some flights at DXB and Dubai World Central–Al Maktoum International are either cancelled or delayed due to the temporary partial closure of UAE airspace, describing the move as an exceptional safety measure.
As of 28 February 2026, several countries across the Middle East have imposed full or partial airspace restrictions, triggering significant disruption to international flight corridors.
UAE: Fully closed, with authorities describing the move as a precautionary security measure
Bahrain: Functionally closed due to ongoing regional security risks
Jordan: Fully closed, with civilian flights suspended
Israel: Closed to all civilian aviation
Iran: Fully closed, with flights suspended nationwide
Iraq: Fully closed, with a total halt to air traffic
Qatar: Effectively shut amid active missile threats
Advisory for Indian Nationals
The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi has issued a public advisory urging Indian citizens in the UAE to avoid non-essential travel, remain alert, and follow safety guidance issued by local authorities. The mission added that both the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai continue to operate normally.
Airlines Suspend and Reroute Services
A growing number of international airlines have adjusted operations as airspace restrictions widened across the Middle East.
Air France-KLM cancelled flights to and from Tel Aviv and Beirut, with KLM advancing the suspension of its Amsterdam–Tel Aviv route.
Lufthansa halted services to Tel Aviv, Beirut, Oman and Dubai, and said it would avoid certain regional air corridors.
Virgin Atlantic confirmed it will avoid Iraqi airspace, resulting in revised routings on select flights.
Wizz Air suspended operations to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman until at least March 7.
Japan Airlines cancelled its Tokyo–Doha service and return leg.
Both Air India and IndiGo have suspended services to the Middle East amid escalating airspace disruptions. The airlines issued travel advisories on X and Instagram, urging passengers to verify flight status directly through official channels.
As of 5pm on 28 February, IndiGo confirmed cancellations across affected routes until midnight, with further updates expected based on evolving conditions.
In the Gulf, flydubai cancelled or rerouted flights to Iran and Israel as closures spread across neighbouring airspace.
Qatar Airways temporarily suspended operations following the closure of Qatari airspace, citing safety concerns.
Elsewhere, Turkish Airlines cancelled multiple Middle East services, while Aegean Airlines suspended flights to Tel Aviv, Beirut and Erbil.
Emirates: The Dubai-based carrier has grounded flights from its hub and urged passengers to stay updated. The airline said it is closely tracking developments, coordinating with authorities and adjusting operations as required. Travellers have been advised to check directly with Emirates or their booking agent for the latest updates.
Etihad Airways: Etihad confirmed disruptions to its network, noting the situation remains fluid with potential last-minute changes. The airline said it is working with regulators and will operate only through approved airspace. Passengers are advised to contact the airline or their travel agent for rebooking options.
Travel Advice for Passengers
The UAE’s aviation regulator has emphasised that the safety of national airspace and civilian operations remains its top priority. Travellers are advised to stay proactive and informed as conditions continue to evolve.
Passengers should contact their airline directly for real-time updates on flight status, rebooking options and fare waivers. Authorities also recommend relying only on official government and aviation channels for information, rather than social media or unverified sources.
Delays, cancellations and last-minute schedule revisions remain possible as airlines continue to adjust routes in response to the changing security environment.
Those planning travel through the Gulf in the coming days are urged to remain flexible, monitor advisories closely and ensure their travel insurance provides adequate disruption coverage. With the regional situation still fluid, further aviation updates are likely.
What Are Foreign Governments Advising?
India: India’s mission in the UAE has urged nationals to limit non-essential movement, remain cautious and stay alert to official guidance. Citizens have been advised to follow updates issued by local authorities and the Embassy.
United Kingdom: British authorities have issued stricter guidance for citizens in the UAE, including advice to remain indoors and minimise movement. The latest update recommends avoiding travel, staying in secure locations and adhering closely to local government instructions.
United States: US officials have issued similar advisories, urging citizens in the UAE and Abu Dhabi to remain sheltered where possible and stay informed through verified sources. Travellers have also been advised to be ready for sudden changes to plans as the situation evolves.
Should You Reconsider Your Travel Plans?
For now, much of the Middle East remains under significant airspace restrictions, meaning travellers with near-term plans to visit the region may face disruptions. Those scheduled to fly in the coming days should expect uncertainty, including reroutes, delays or last-minute schedule changes.
Travellers are advised to stay updated through airline notifications and official advisories, build flexibility into itineraries and allow additional buffer time for connections where possible.
Once airspace restrictions ease and regional conditions stabilise, normal travel patterns are expected to gradually resume. Until then, passengers should continue monitoring developments closely and be prepared to adjust plans as the situation evolves.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for further updates.
