Thousands of international visitors affected by temporary airspace closures in the UAE are receiving coordinated support from authorities, airlines and hotels as the country prioritises safety and passenger welfare.

While flight operations remain suspended due to regional developments, UAE authorities have activated contingency plans to ensure travellers are accommodated, informed and assisted during the disruption.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) confirmed that passenger safety remains the highest priority, with close coordination between airports, airlines and government entities to manage the evolving situation.

Accommodation and hospitality support 

In a move welcomed by visitors, authorities confirmed that the UAE is covering hosting and accommodation costs for affected transit passengers.

Over 20,000 travellers have already been assisted through integrated response measures, including:

• Temporary accommodation
• Meals and refreshments
• Rebooking coordination
• Rerouting support where possible

Hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been directed to extend stays for guests unable to depart due to the temporary closures. Establishments have been instructed to prioritise guest welfare and ensure visitors are not asked to vacate rooms under exceptional circumstances.

The Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, has issued a circular to hotels requesting that guests unable to depart due to circumstances beyond their control be allowed to extend their stay, with the cost of the extension covered by DCT Abu Dhabi.

Airlines offer flexible travel options

Major UAE carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia, have introduced flexible rebooking and refund policies to support affected passengers.

International airlines such as Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo have also adjusted schedules and offered flexibility.

Travellers are being encouraged to monitor official airline websites and mobile apps for real-time updates.

Tourism and public services operating normally

Despite air travel disruptions, daily life across the UAE continues as normal.

Malls, beaches, theme parks and cultural attractions remain open and operational. Public services are functioning smoothly, and standard safety protocols remain in place.

Authorities have reassured residents and visitors that the situation is being closely monitored and managed with a strong focus on safety and stability.

Clear guidance and communication

Government entities, including the UAE Ministry of Interior and the General Civil Aviation Authority, are providing regular updates through official channels to ensure accurate information reaches the public.

Passengers have been advised not to proceed to airports without confirming their flight status, as airlines continue to communicate directly with affected travellers.

Coordinated response

Officials described the response as a whole-of-government effort aimed at minimising inconvenience while maintaining the highest safety standards.

While the situation remains dynamic and dependent on regional developments, authorities have reiterated their commitment to restoring normal operations as soon as conditions permit.

For now, stranded tourists are being supported through structured contingency plans,  underscoring the UAE’s emphasis on preparedness, coordination and visitor welfare.

(Photo courtesy: Abu Dhabi News)

Flight operations across the UAE were temporarily suspended on Monday as ongoing regional airspace closures disrupted schedules, authorities and airlines confirmed.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) said the move followed a comprehensive assessment of security and operational risks, undertaken in coordination with national and international authorities. The regulator emphasised that passenger safety, crew welfare and the protection of UAE airspace remain the highest priorities.

Authorities urged passengers not to proceed to airports unless advised by their airline and to rely exclusively on official communication channels for updates.

 Temporary suspensions

Major airports across the country confirmed temporary suspensions:

• Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
• Zayed International Airport
• Sharjah International Airport

Airport authorities said they are coordinating closely with airlines to manage passenger movement, prevent congestion, and ensure a smooth resumption of operations once restrictions are lifted.

Flight suspensions

Emirates

Emirates suspended all Dubai departures until 15:00 (UAE time) on March 3 due to regional airspace closures. Affected passengers may rebook for travel up to March 20 or request refunds for direct bookings. Dubai city check-in facilities remain closed.

Etihad Airways

Etihad suspended flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 14:00 on Monday. Passengers holding tickets issued on or before February 28 may rebook free of charge for travel up to March 18 or request refunds for flights scheduled until March 3.

flydubai

flydubai suspended flights to and from Dubai until 15:00. Passengers scheduled to travel within the next 72 hours may rebook within 20 days or request refunds.

Air Arabia

Air Arabia suspended UAE operations until 15:00 and extended cancellations to Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Iraq until March 3.

International carriers also affected

Several international airlines reported disruptions to services to and from the UAE and wider Gulf region, including:

• Air India
• Air India Express
• IndiGo
• Pakistan International Airlines

Passengers are advised to verify flight status directly with their airline before travelling.

Support for stranded passengers

The GCAA confirmed that expenses for affected transit passengers are being covered. Accommodation, meals and refreshments have been provided, while airlines are facilitating rebooking under contingency plans.

Authorities reported that approximately 20,200 passengers were managed during the disruption period through coordinated rerouting and rescheduling measures.

Officials reiterated that updates should be obtained exclusively from official airline websites and aviation authorities.

Motorists across the UAE will pay more at the pump starting March 1, 2026, after the country announced revised petrol and diesel rates for the new month.

The UAE Fuel Price Committee confirmed the updated retail prices on February 28, with all fuel categories seeing a moderate increase compared to February.

Under the new rates:

• Super 98: Dh2.59 per litre (up from Dh2.45)
• Special 95: Dh2.48 per litre (up from Dh2.33)
• E-Plus 91: Dh2.40 per litre (up from Dh2.26)
• Diesel: Dh2.72 per litre (up from Dh2.52)

Why UAE fuel prices increased

Fuel prices in the UAE are reviewed monthly and adjusted in line with global oil market trends. The country deregulated fuel prices in 2015, linking local pump rates to international benchmarks.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure approves the monthly pricing structure, which is based on the average global oil price and includes distribution company operating costs.

The March revision reflects a slight upward movement in global crude prices during February.

How much more will you pay? Full tank cost breakdown

Depending on your vehicle type, filling up in March could cost between Dh7 and Dh11 more compared to February.

Compact Car (51-litre tank)

• Super 98: Dh132.09
• Special 95: Dh126.48
• E-Plus: Dh122.40

Increase: Around Dh7 per tank

Sedan (62-litre tank)

• Super 98: Dh160.58
• Special 95: Dh153.76
• E-Plus: Dh148.80

Increase: Around Dh9 per tank

SUV (74-litre tank)

• Super 98: Dh191.66
• Special 95: Dh183.52
• E-Plus: Dh177.60

Increase: Up to Dh11 per tank

Diesel vehicle owners will also see a noticeable rise, with prices increasing by 20 fils per litre.

What this means for motorists

While the increase is modest, regular commuters and SUV owners may feel the impact over the course of a month, especially those who refuel weekly.

With fuel rates continuing to fluctuate in response to global markets, motorists are advised to monitor monthly announcements to plan their fuel expenses accordingly.