Regional attacks trigger Gulf-wide flight suspensions amid heightened security.
Dubai: Several Gulf countries have closed or suspended their airspace following a sharp escalation in regional hostilities, after airstrikes targeted Iran.
Authorities in Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE confirmed the closures late on February 28, as explosions were reported in Tehran and Israel announced a military operation against Iran.
This is a rapidly developing situation. Updates will follow as new information becomes available.
UAE: Partial airspace closure
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced a temporary partial closure of the UAE’s airspace as an exceptional precautionary measure to ensure the safety of flights and aircrews.
The regulator said the decision followed a comprehensive assessment of security and operational risks, carried out in coordination with national and international authorities. It emphasized that aviation safety and the protection of the UAE’s airspace remain top priorities.
Passengers were urged to contact their airlines for updates, with carriers instructed to provide accommodation and necessary assistance where required.
Qatar: Air traffic suspended
The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirmed a temporary suspension of all air traffic in the country amid heightened security concerns.
Qatar’s Ministry of Defence later stated that it had successfully intercepted a number of missiles targeting the country, preventing them from reaching Qatari territory, and described the security situation as stable and under control.
The Ministry of Interior urged the public to rely solely on official sources and warned against spreading rumours.
Kuwait: Airspace closed
Kuwait’s Civil Aviation Authority announced the closure of its airspace due to regional security developments. No timeline was provided for when the airspace might reopen.
Iran: Full airspace closure after explosions
Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization announced a full closure of its airspace for six hours following a series of explosions in Tehran. Iranian media reported successive airstrikes, while Israel confirmed launching a military operation against Iran.
Iraq: Airspace shut
Iraq closed its airspace in response to the strikes on Iran. Authorities confirmed that Iraqi skies were cleared of all air traffic prior to the shutdown. Erbil International Airport also suspended all inbound and outbound flights until further notice.
Bahrain: Missile attack reported
In Bahrain, the National Communication Centre reported that sites within the kingdom were targeted by attacks launched from outside its territory, calling the strikes a violation of sovereignty. The Centre confirmed that a service facility of the U.S. Fifth Fleet had been subjected to a missile attack. Emergency response plans were activated, and the public was urged to follow official instructions.
Authorities across the region stressed that security forces remain on high alert and are coordinating closely to protect citizens, residents, and visitors. Travellers are advised to check directly with airlines and monitor official channels for updates.
