UAE flight updates: Airlines adjust schedules amid regional tensions and summer travel surge

Travellers flying from the UAE are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport, as airlines continue to adjust schedules amid operational changes and heightened regional tensions. While most UAE airlines continue to operate, Etihad Airways, Emirates and Air Arabia have announced changes affecting selected routes to Bahrain, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The updates come as UAE airports enter the busy summer travel period, with thousands of passengers travelling for holidays. Passengers affected by schedule changes will be contacted through WhatsApp, email or SMS if their booking details are updated. Passengers are urged to monitor airline apps and official websites, as schedules may change at short notice.

Flight disruptions and travel advisories

Etihad Airways has cancelled selected flights between Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport and Bahrain International Airport, as well as flights between Abu Dhabi and Kuwait International Airport. Cancelled services include EY653 and EY654 between Abu Dhabi and Kuwait. Passengers affected by the cancellations have been advised to update their contact details with the airline to receive the latest travel information. Emirates has advised passengers to check their flight status before travelling. Selected Dubai services have been affected on August 2, with multiple flights to and from Kuwait and Bahrain cancelled. Emirates said some flight information, including Bahrain-Dubai services, may only be available closer to departure.

Air Arabia and other carriers adjust services

Air Arabia has also announced changes affecting selected flights between the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Affected services include Abu Dhabi-Kuwait, Abu Dhabi-Bahrain and Sharjah-Kuwait routes. Passengers affected should contact Air Arabia for rebooking options and the latest updates. flydubai has not announced major changes to its flight schedule and continues to operate services as normal. Passengers are advised to check flight status before travelling and complete online check-in where available. The US State Department has issued a travel warning for the Middle East, including the UAE, advising citizens to prepare for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions.

International airlines continue to adjust services across the Gulf amid ongoing security concerns. Qatar Airways has extended the suspension of passenger flights to Bahrain, Erbil and Kuwait until July 31. British Airways has suspended flights to Dubai, Bahrain, Amman and Tel Aviv until October 31. Singapore Airlines, Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, Finnair and ITA Airways have suspended Dubai services until October 24. Lufthansa and Swiss International Air Lines will not resume Dubai flights until September 13. Oman Air has warned passengers of delays on some flights after temporary airspace restrictions and operational challenges affected aircraft movements across its network. The airline said teams are working to minimise disruption and restore normal operations.

Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours before departure and allow extra time for check-in, security and immigration procedures. Dubai International Airport (DXB) has also advised passengers to plan extra time for their journey due to increased passenger volumes. Airlines and airports continue to advise passengers to rely on official channels for the latest schedule information. Travelers departing from Dubai International Airport can use the Dubai Metro to reach Emirates Terminal 3, with specific timings available for different days of the week.

Real-time updates are essential for passengers to navigate the current travel landscape. With flight schedules and conditions changing rapidly, it is essential for passengers to check official airline websites for real-time updates. The UAE airports and airlines are urging travellers to plan ahead, monitor updates and remain flexible in case of last-minute changes. As the summer travel season intensifies, staying informed and prepared is crucial for a smooth journey.