UAE travel update: Flight operations resume partially; Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia, Emirates revise schedules

UAE carriers have resumed some flight operations at major airports across the country, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, as the Middle East airspace is now partially open again. However, the carriers have reminded air travelers that flight schedules are subject to change, hence the need for air travelers to stay updated before proceeding to the airports.

Travelers are strongly advised not to proceed to the airport unless they get a confirmation message directly from their respective airlines regarding flight timings. As changes are being made to flight timings, it is essential to get updates on flight status through online sources to avoid disruptions.





The authorities at all UAE airports have once again emphasized to passengers that they should make the journey only if their bookings are confirmed. In view of the current scenario, airlines are still making changes to the flight schedule, and passengers should expect last-minute changes as well.

Airlines offer flexibility amid disruptions

Major UAE carriers such as Etihad Airways, Emirates, flydubai, and Air Arabia are providing flexible rebooking and refund options to affected passengers.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways is currently operating a limited number of flights to some destinations from Abu Dhabi. Passengers with bookings between February 28 and March 31, 2026, can rebook without additional charges until May 15. Refunds are also available through its website. The airline has temporarily suspended online check-in until March 21 and is advising passengers to arrive early at the airport.

Emirates

Emirates has resumed a reduced schedule from Dubai.Passengers whose travel was affected between February 28 and April 15 can reschedule their travel up to May 31, 2026, or seek refunds. The airline has asked passengers, especially those with connecting flights, not to travel until their rescheduled flights are confirmed. Because of the large volumes of calls, passengers are encouraged to manage their travel through the online channels.

Flydubai

flydubai has also restarted operations with a limited schedule. Passengers can rebook within 30 days of their original travel date without penalty or request full refunds. The airline has emphasised that travellers should only head to the airport after receiving confirmation of their revised flight details.

Air Arabia

Air Arabia has resumed select flights from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah to destinations across Europe, Africa, and Asia, including multiple Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Kochi, and Hyderabad. Affected passengers can choose between rebooking, credit vouchers, or refunds.

UAE entry update for residents

One of the major relief measures taken by the UAE government is that residents stranded in foreign countries, whose residency permit has expired or will expire after February 28, 2026, are permitted to return without the requirement of a valid re-entry permit until March 31, 2026.

Gradual restoration

Though the operations of the flights are resuming gradually, the focus remains on the safety and operational preparedness of the airlines. It is recommended that the passengers should be aware of the information provided on the airline's websites and mobile apps to avoid any kind of inconvenience during the process.