Gulf flights face 1–2 hour delays as rerouting continues around restricted airspace

As the US–Iran conflict enters its 220th day, UAE airports remain fully open and operational, but flight operations face significant disruptions. Any flights connecting Europe and Asia via Gulf hubs continue to incur an additional 60 to 120 minutes of flight time due to rerouting around restricted regional airspace. Local carriers—Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia—continue operating the majority of their networks, though flight durations are longer due to closed airspace corridors. Select regional routes, including services to Iran, Israel, and specific Saudi regional destinations, remain suspended or subject to sudden cancellations. International carriers including Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, and Turkish Airlines have extended suspensions or route modifications. Foreign airlines—including Air France, KLM, SWISS, and ITA Airways—have extended suspensions of their flights to and from Dubai through October 24, 2026. The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority maintains a total suspension on all commercial flights operated by Iranian carriers to and from UAE airports. Residents and travelers are advised to check flight statuses directly with operating airlines and factor in extended travel time before heading to airports.