Emirates cancels UAE flights

Emirates cancels UAE flights

Renewed fighting between the US and Iran has led to disruptions in air travel in the Gulf, with several airlines cancelling flights to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Emirates airline has cancelled eight flights between Dubai and Kuwait, while Etihad Airways has cancelled its services between Abu Dhabi and Kuwait.

Air Arabia flights have also been affected, with flights from Abu Dhabi and Sharjah cancelled or delayed. Flydubai has cancelled a service between Dubai and Abha, in Saudi Arabia. The cancellations come as Kuwait Airways announced it had rescheduled the majority of its commercial flights after take-offs and landings at Kuwait International Airport were temporarily suspended on Saturday amid repeated missile and drone threats.

The aviation sector had been steadily returning to normal after widespread airspace closures caused by the conflict, which began on February 28.

Airlines are advising travelers to monitor their flight status closely and make alternative arrangements where possible. Operational teams are working to restore schedules and minimize further disruptions. Emirates has advised affected passengers to contact the airline or the office through which they made their booking for assistance.

Etihad has also cancelled flights EY653 and EY654 between Zayed International Airport and Kuwait International Airport on July 19 and 20, due to operational reasons. The airline has said its teams are assisting affected passengers with their travel arrangements. Air Arabia has cancelled several flights between the UAE and Kuwait, and passengers have been advised to check their flight status before traveling to the airport.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a conflict zone advisory for the Gulf, urging airlines to avoid airspace over the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar until Wednesday, July 29.

Emirates has said it is now flying to 137 destinations across 72 countries worldwide, representing 96 percent of its previous global network. Etihad is operating a schedule to 80 destinations, which is set to increase throughout the summer as seasonal routes are added.

Qatar Airways has resumed flights to the UAE, with routes to Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. The airline has said its flight network is now covering more than 160 destinations and confirmed those with confirmed travel dates are eligible for a complimentary date change up to October 31, 2026.