Middle East Air Disruptions: Essential Information for Affected Travelers
Ongoing tensions in the Middle East related to the conflict with Iran are leading to significant air travel disruptions. Major international airports are feeling the impacts of widespread airspace closures, with only a limited number of flights operating.
Current Air Travel Situation in the Middle East
The United States government has issued warnings for its citizens to leave the region immediately using available commercial airlines. As of now, airspace over several Middle Eastern countries, including Iran’s neighbors such as Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE, remains largely closed, leading to complications for travelers trying to fly out.
On Tuesday morning, flight tracking data indicated a stark reduction in air traffic over the UAE, Kuwait, Israel, Bahrain, Iraq, and Jordan. Airlines based in these regions, including Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways, are significantly impacted. Although Emirates has resumed limited operations, Etihad has still suspended all flights until March 4 at 2 p.m. UAE time.
Government Advisories for Travelers
- The US State Department strongly recommends American citizens in areas like Bahrain, Iraq, and Israel to “depart now” due to serious safety risks.
- Canada has advised its citizens to leave the UAE as soon as possible, warning of intermittent airspace closures.
- The UK advises British nationals in affected regions to register for updates from their government.
- Australia has opened an emergency portal for citizens and advised against travel to most Middle Eastern nations.
As of Tuesday morning, over 1,000 flights had been canceled, and this is expected to increase as airlines adjust routes in response to the situation. For example, Lufthansa has halted operations to Dubai until March 4 and to several other cities until March 8.
Flight Rebooking and Refund Information
Travelers needing to change their plans are advised to contact their airlines directly. Each airline has different policies regarding rebooking and refunds:
| Airline | Rebooking Policy | Refund Option |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Alternate flights can be booked on or before March 20. | Refund requests are accepted. |
| Etihad | Free rebooking available for tickets issued before February 28, 2026. | Refunds may be requested. |
| British Airways | Free date changes up to March 15; travel by March 29. | Full refunds for changes by March 8. |
Assistance for Stranded Travelers
With major airspace closures, governments are struggling to assist citizens who are unable to leave. Countries like the Netherlands have indicated that repatriation is currently not feasible due to closed airspaces. In contrast, the UAE has agreed to cover accommodation and food costs for stranded travelers in its territory.
As many foreign workers find themselves stuck, initiatives are being explored to help evacuate those in vulnerable situations, particularly from countries like the Philippines and Indonesia.
The situation remains fluid, and travelers are encouraged to stay in contact with their airlines and follow government advisories for travel updates.
