Limited flights leave UAE while disruption continues amid Iran strikes
BBC World
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Limited flights have been allowed to depart from the UAE as ongoing disruptions continue to affect air travel across the Middle East due to the joint Israeli and US operations against Iran. Over 4,000 daily flights have been canceled, impacting hundreds of thousands of passengers. The situation is expected to worsen with time, causing significant repercussions for the aviation industry. Key hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are operating on a limited basis, with only a small number of flights approved to resume operations. Meanwhile, Qatari airspace remains closed, forcing Qatar Airways to suspend all operations until further notice.
The disruptions have hit major destinations hard: 79% of flights to Qatar, 71% to the UAE, 81% to Israel, and 92% to Bahrain have been canceled. Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, has suspended regular services until Wednesday, while Emirates, operating from Dubai, plans a limited resumption of flights on Monday evening, prioritizing passengers with earlier cancellations. Both airlines have advised travelers not to visit airports unless directly contacted.
Passengers across the region are facing significant challenges, with many stranded and uncertain about their travel plans. The cancellations have also led to economic losses for the aviation industry and raised concerns over global supply chains and international travel. The situation underscores the broader geopolitical tensions impacting global commerce and security
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Originally published on BBC World on 3/2/2026