Travel experts say the measure will enable airlines to operate at 20–30% capacity, providing relief to stranded passengers and those traveling for emergencies, such as medical treatment.
UAE Air Corridors to Help Stranded and Emergency Travelers
People stranded in the UAE and those needing to travel for emergencies will benefit from the air corridors the country has established with GCC nations, travel experts say. The initiative allows airlines to operate a limited number of flights, helping ease the backlog.
“The air corridor allows airlines to operate at approximately 20 to 30 percent of their capacity,” said Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com. “This enables controlled departures that support tourists, transit passengers, and those traveling for emergency reasons to return home.”
During a media briefing on Tuesday, the UAE announced plans to gradually restore air traffic, operating up to 48 flights per hour following recent regional developments.
UAE Air Corridors to Support Key Routes, Urgent Travelers, and Perishable Goods
According to Safeer Mohammed, General Manager of Smart Travels, the air corridors will help establish flights on key routes with high passenger traffic, assisting in clearing the backlog caused by recent disruptions.
“The air corridor will ensure that flights operate to locations with higher passenger demand,” he said. “This will help clear up the backlog of passengers.”
Mohammed also highlighted that limited flights will support the transport of perishable goods, ensuring steady supplies of produce to the market. The UAE’s airspace was closed on Saturday following the outbreak of the US-Israel-Iran conflict and the resulting regional tensions.
High Prices Due to Limited Flights
As the corridor currently allows only a limited number of flights, prices are expected to be high. Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com, explained:
“As per the laws of supply and demand, ticket prices will be high. Those who need to travel urgently are expected to pay the premium to secure a seat.”
He added that the travel industry is hopeful for smooth operations and eventual expansion of routes:
“We are optimistic that more routes will open over time. For now, everyone is taking a wait-and-watch approach. If operations go well, regular air transport may be partially restored in time for the Eid holidays.”
Community Groups Step In
Meanwhile, community organizations are assisting travelers with urgent needs. Nissar Thalangara, President of the Sharjah Indian Association, shared examples:
“We helped individuals who needed to travel to India urgently for medical treatment, including a cancer patient who required timely check-ups and further care. We are also exploring chartered flights to transport those in urgent need at lower costs.”
The association has also supported stranded passengers, including students stuck in the UAE during transit and visitors whose visas had expired.
“The UAE government was very supportive in ensuring that everyone was well taken care of. Their assistance has been greatly appreciated,” Thalangara added.
