UAE Airports Operating as Normal, Though Flights and Security Advisories Could Change at Short Notice.
As the US-Iran conflict reaches its 215th day, UAE residents continue to face disruptions to air travel, higher fuel costs and increased regional security concerns.
The Strait of Hormuz remains open but under a significant military presence, with oil shipments estimated by CNN to be running at around 80 per cent of pre-war levels. The UAE has suspended flights operated by Iranian airlines since September 24, while several international carriers have extended cancellations into late 2026 and, in some cases, early 2027.
Diplomatic efforts are continuing through Qatar, although Washington has rejected Tehran’s proposal for a seven-day arrangement concerning the Strait of Hormuz. Within Iran, divisions among hardline factions have also surfaced over the detention of an MP, highlighting internal political tensions that could complicate decision-making.
For UAE residents, conditions remain uncertain and subject to rapid change. Airports continue to operate, but flight schedules, oil prices and security guidance may shift with little warning.
Aviation updates: Flight suspensions, cancellations and resumptions
- Emirates suspends codeshare services: Emirates has suspended its flydubai codeshare flights to Tel Aviv following a security incident aboard a Dubai–Tel Aviv service that resulted in an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
- GCAA investigates flydubai incident: The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) confirmed that an altercation on the flight deck left crew members injured. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
- Tel Aviv passengers: Travellers already en route to Tel Aviv will receive assistance, but the suspension adds to ongoing aviation disruption as regional security concerns remain elevated amid the US-Iran conflict.
- Iranian carriers remain suspended: The GCAA has suspended all flights operated by Iranian airlines to and from the UAE since September 24. The restriction, which affects Iran Air and other Iranian carriers, remains in place until further notice.
- UAE airports remain operational: Dubai International (DXB), Al Maktoum International (DWC) and Zayed International Airport (AUH) continue to operate. However, travellers could encounter delays or cancellations on some regional routes, particularly services involving Bahrain, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
- International carriers extend suspensions: Air France has suspended Dubai flights until October 13, while Singapore Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways and SWISS have extended suspensions until October 24. Air Canada’s suspension is expected to continue until mid-January 2027. British Airways is scheduled to resume services on November 4, while Lufthansa and SWISS are expected to restart operations between October 25 and 27.
- Some services set to resume: Philippine Airlines is scheduled to restart Dubai flights on October 2. Wizz Air is expected to resume Dubai services from October 25 and Abu Dhabi operations from October 27.
- Advice for passengers: Travellers should verify their flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport. Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours before departure, or four hours when travelling with flydubai, and use online check-in where available.
Security situation: Hormuz, fuel prices and regional risks
- Oil flows through Hormuz: Oil and petroleum-product shipments through the Strait of Hormuz averaged around 13.1 million barrels per day last week. That represents nearly 80 per cent of the pre-war level of 17.1 million barrels per day, supported by US Navy-backed tanker movements and the use of alternative routes.
- UAE fuel prices increase: Petrol and diesel prices have risen for October. Super 98 increased 15.8 per cent to Dh4.40 per litre, while Special 95 rose 16 per cent to Dh4.28. E-Plus 91 climbed 16.6 per cent to Dh4.21 per litre, while diesel increased from Dh4.30 in September to Dh4.80 per litre.
- Diplomatic efforts continue: Indirect talks between the US and Iran are continuing through Qatar. US President Donald Trump has rejected Tehran’s seven-day proposal concerning the Strait of Hormuz and denied offering sanctions relief or access to frozen funds.
- Travel warnings remain in place: The US continues to maintain a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory for the Gulf, citing risks associated with armed conflict, terrorism and disruption to commercial flights. The UK, Australia and Canada have also urged travellers to exercise caution amid the possibility of flight cancellations and sudden airspace changes.
Iran’s internal divisions: Dispute over jailed MP
- Rasaei jailed: Hardline Tehran MP Hamid Rasaei has become the first sitting lawmaker to be imprisoned during his term. He was sentenced to 10 months by the Special Clerical Court over a 2024 article in which he accused Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf of manipulating documents.
- Divisions among conservatives: Ultraconservative figures associated with the Paydari Party and Saeed Jalili have criticised Ghalibaf and Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, accusing them of attempting to silence critics. Other conservatives and IRGC-linked media have defended the judiciary and characterised Rasaei’s allegations as “slander”.
- Potential implications: The dispute highlights divisions within Iran’s ruling conservative establishment at a time when officials are debating negotiations with the US. These internal disagreements could make it more difficult to maintain a unified approach to foreign policy and security issues.
What UAE residents should watch today
- Strait of Hormuz: Any significant restriction on shipping or a new attack involving tankers could add further pressure to global oil markets.
- Flight operations: Travellers should continue checking directly with airlines before leaving for the airport, as schedules may change at short notice.
- Diplomatic developments: Further movement in Qatar-mediated talks, including responses to proposals concerning the Strait of Hormuz, will remain closely watched.
- Official security guidance: Residents and travellers should follow UAE authorities for the latest security information and monitor official updates for any changes affecting travel or regional conditions.
