Are flights to Dubai resuming?
Limited, phased service is returning — but disruption continues
After more than 48 hours of near-total closure, Dubai's airport began operating a very small number of flights late on Monday. Major Gulf carriers announced phased resumptions focused first on repatriation and emergency services rather than a full schedule rebuild. Other regional hubs are following similar, cautious steps as authorities assess safety and reopen controlled corridors.
Thousands of passengers remain affected. Airlines are prioritizing routes that let stranded travelers leave the region, and several governments and carriers are organising special or chartered services to help nationals and residents get home. Qatar Airways has created an operational hub via Oman for some diversionary traffic, and the UAE has signalled plans to schedule hundreds of special flights to clear backlogs.
What this means for travellers now
- Expect irregular timetables: some flights will operate, many will still be cancelled or delayed. Flights that do return will often be capacity-limited.
- Repatriation-first approach: early services prioritise people leaving the region and those on government-sponsored evacuations.
- Long waits and logistical bottlenecks are likely at airports and hotels as airlines and states coordinate returns.
Practical steps to take today
- Monitor your airline’s official channels for rebooking or repatriation notices.
- Contact your embassy or consulate for emergency assistance and the latest travel advisories.
- Keep reservation confirmations and receipts if you incur extra costs — documentation supports claims with airlines or insurers.
- Be flexible: reroutes via nearby hubs or overland connections may be the quickest option.
The situation is fluid. Limited flights are a first step toward normalisation, but widespread recovery of schedules will take time as airspace restrictions, safety reviews, and demand imbalances are resolved.