In a significant development, all flights to and from Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport have been halted until further notice, following a series of powerful explosions reported across the United Arab Emirates.
This unexpected shutdown comes in the wake of escalating military hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have resulted in widespread disruption of civilian air travel throughout the Middle East.
Emirates said: “Due to multiple regional airspace closures, Emirates has temporarily suspended operations to and from Dubai.
“We apologise to customers affected by disruptions for any inconvenience caused, and we are assisting them with rebooking, refunds, or alternative travel arrangements. The safety and security of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority.”
The Government of Dubai Media Office said in a statement: “Dubai Airports confirms that all flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are suspended until further notice.
“Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport at this time and to contact their respective airlines directly for the latest updates regarding their flights.
“We appreciate the cooperation of our guests. Further updates will be provided as we continue to monitor the situation.”
🚨BREAKING: Dubai International Airport CLOSED!
All flights suspended. Thousands stranded in total chaos. Iranian missiles → UAE airspace closed → air travel paralysed until further notice. pic.twitter.com/TggGeD8Ibv
— Gauci Reports (@GauciReports) February 28, 2026
As the tensions rise, several major international airlines have taken precautionary measures by cancelling or suspending their services in response to the precarious situation:
- British Airways has announced the suspension of its flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain, effective until March 3.
- Lufthansa has opted to halt flights to key destinations, including Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Oman, in light of the security threats.
- Norwegian Air Shuttle has suspended all operations to and from Dubai, prioritising passenger safety amid the uncertain climate.
- Qatar Airways has temporarily ceased operations due to the closure of Qatari airspace, affecting travel routes throughout the region.
- Virgin Atlantic is rerouting its flights away from Iraqi airspace and has cancelled its London–Dubai route.
- Wizz Air has suspended flights to and from various locations such as Israel, the UAE, Abu Dhabi, and Amman until March 7.
Witnesses across the region have reported hearing loud blasts in several Middle Eastern cities, including the bustling metropolis of Dubai, following targeted strikes by US and Israeli forces on Iranian military installations.
This coordinated military operation involved the deployment of advanced warplanes and precision-guided cruise missiles launched from both Israeli air bases and a US carrier strike group stationed in the region’s waters.
In response, Iranian authorities have claimed they are carrying out retaliatory strikes aimed at US military installations and interests throughout the region, as reported by the Tasnim News Agency.
The sweeping suspension of air travel has triggered grave concerns about the safety of commercial aviation corridors, potential disruptions to global supply chains connecting Europe and Asia, and heightened volatility in international energy markets. Officials are urging all travellers to consult with their airlines for updates and further guidance before embarking on their journeys.
Aviation analysts are warning that if hostilities continue, travellers may face extended airspace restrictions across the Gulf and the eastern Mediterranean, potentially complicating travel plans for many individuals and businesses in the region.
