Passengers are advised to allow extra time as flight schedules remain subject to change.
Dubai: UAE airports are preparing for increased passenger numbers as the summer holiday period draws to a close, while regional flight schedules remain fluid amid the wider Middle East situation.
Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs has stepped up operational readiness across airport platforms and checkpoints to help manage the expected surge in returning travellers.
UAE airline updates
Etihad Airways: Abu Dhabi–Bahrain services are operating, with EY647 and EY648 having arrived. EY641, EY643, EY645, EY642, EY644 and EY646 are scheduled. Abu Dhabi–Kuwait EY653 and Kuwait–Abu Dhabi EY654 are also scheduled.
Emirates: Some Dubai–Bahrain flights have been cancelled, while EK839 and EK840 are scheduled. Dubai–Kuwait services EK857 and EK858 are also scheduled.
flydubai: Services to Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are operating, although some other flights have been cancelled.
Air Arabia: Several services between the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain have been cancelled, delayed or have yet to depart. Some Sharjah–Kuwait and Kuwait–Sharjah flights have also been cancelled.
Flight schedules remain subject to change at short notice, so passengers are advised to check the status of their specific flight with the airline before leaving for the airport.
International airlines
Several international carriers are continuing to adjust their Middle East operations:
Air Canada: Dubai services remain suspended until mid-January 2027.
British Airways: Services to Dubai, Tel Aviv, Bahrain and Amman are suspended until October 25.
Singapore Airlines: Dubai services remain suspended until October 24.
KLM: Services to Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam are suspended until September 6.
Philippine Airlines: Dubai services remain suspended until October 2.
Lufthansa and Swiss: Dubai services are suspended until September 13.
Turkish Airlines: Services to Abu Dhabi and Dubai have resumed, while flights to Iran remain suspended.
Dubai prepares for post-summer travel rush
Dubai authorities are increasing operational readiness across airport platforms and checkpoints as residents and visitors return from their summer holidays.
Passengers should expect busier airports and allow additional time for check-in, security, immigration and road traffic.
What UAE travellers should do
- Check your flight status before leaving home, even if it was previously confirmed.
- Arrive at least three hours before departure, or earlier if advised by your airline.
- Allow four hours when flying from Dubai with flydubai, in line with its guidance.
- Complete online check-in where available.
- Allow extra time for traffic, security, check-in and immigration.
- Keep your contact details updated with your airline.
- Be prepared for last-minute delays, cancellations or schedule changes.
- Follow official airline and airport channels for the latest updates.
What UAE residents should watch next
Key developments to monitor include Strait of Hormuz traffic, US-Iran negotiations, further sanctions, oil prices and airline schedules.
Any escalation around the strategic waterway could have broader implications for regional shipping, energy markets and air travel.
For travellers, the safest approach is to check airline and airport updates immediately before setting out, as schedules can change at short notice.
Bottom line: Many UAE routes remain operational, but disruptions are still possible. Check your specific flight shortly before travelling to the airport.
