The past two days have demonstrated the effectiveness of the UAE’s coordinated national response system, with authorities acting swiftly and in full alignment with established readiness standards.

Ali Saeed Al Neyadi, Chairman of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), said developments were addressed with a high degree of professionalism and seamless coordination across all relevant entities.

“Over the past two days, the UAE has witnessed a coordinated national response involving all relevant authorities,” Al Neyadi said, noting that actions were taken under approved national frameworks and precise operational procedures.

Coordinated national response activated

Al Neyadi confirmed that the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management framework was activated from the outset, with operational readiness levels elevated based on continuous and comprehensive risk assessments.

He said these measures ensured:

• Protection of lives
• Safeguarding of national assets
• Uninterrupted continuity of essential services

“What has been achieved reflects sustained institutional investment in preparedness, proactive planning, joint national exercises, and the development of resilient capabilities designed to respond effectively to a range of scenarios,” he added.

Field teams recognised for professionalism

The NCEMA Chairman recognised field teams who carried out their duties with professionalism and a strong sense of national responsibility.

Their efforts, he noted, reflected:

• High levels of preparedness
• Disciplined coordination
• Clearly defined operational roles

He said the response reaffirmed the national system’s capability to act swiftly and in an organised manner under approved plans and precise procedures.

Community awareness praised

Al Neyadi also acknowledged the awareness and commitment shown by citizens and residents.

“The cohesion, trust and cooperation demonstrated by the community reflect the spirit of responsibility that characterises the UAE,” he said.

He added that the alignment between institutions and society remains a cornerstone of national preparedness and strengthens the country’s ability to navigate challenges with confidence and composure.

Preparedness at the highest levels

“This phase has once again demonstrated that the UAE possesses a robust and mature national readiness system operating under a clear governance framework and coordinated response structure at the highest levels,” he said.

Authorities, he added, continue to monitor developments around the clock, conduct ongoing assessments and implement necessary measures to maintain the highest levels of preparedness.

“The UAE is confident in emerging from this period stronger and more resilient, supported by the vision of its leadership, the strength of its institutions, and the awareness of its society.”

Public urged to rely on official sources

In closing, Al Neyadi emphasised that the safety, security and stability of the community remain an absolute national priority.

He urged the public to:

• Adhere to official guidance
• Rely exclusively on approved sources for information
• Refrain from sharing unverified content

Authorities will continue to communicate updates transparently as developments unfold, he said.

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.