The UAE has implemented a temporary partial closure of its airspace as military action escalates across the Middle East. The General Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the measure on Saturday morning, describing it as an exceptional precaution designed to protect civilian aircraft, flight crews and passengers.
The announcement follows a rapid deterioration in regional security in the early hours of Saturday 28 February, after the United States and Israel confirmed the launch of coordinated strikes on targets in Iran. US President Donald Trump said American forces had begun what he described as “major combat operations”, following earlier Israeli strikes in Tehran and other cities.
Within hours, Iran responded with two waves of retaliatory action aimed at Israel. Reports indicate that drones and missiles are currently crossing parts of regional airspace. Emergency alerts have been issued in Qatar and Bahrain.
What the partial closure means for flights
The UAE’s move comes alongside full airspace closures in Iran, Iraq, Jordan and Israel, severely restricting one of the world’s busiest aviation corridors linking Europe, Asia and Australasia.
Airports, including Dubai International and Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, remain operational for ground services, however flight schedules are described as highly fluid. The GCAA said it is coordinating with national and international carriers to assist affected passengers.
Major Gulf airlines, including Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways, are adjusting flight paths to avoid active conflict zones. Rerouting options include corridors over Saudi Arabia and longer northern tracks via Central Asia, increasing flight times and operational complexity.
The disruption also coincides with peak travel to ITB Berlin, one of the global tourism industry’s largest trade fairs, with thousands of delegates reportedly en route.
Travel advice for passengers
The GCAA stated that safeguarding UAE airspace and civilian operations remains an absolute priority. Travellers are advised to:
- Contact their airline directly for flight-specific updates, rebooking policies and waiver information
- Monitor official government and aviation authority channels rather than relying on social media or unverified reports
- Expect possible delays, cancellations or last-minute schedule changes as the situation evolves
Travellers planning journeys through the Gulf in the coming days should remain flexible, check advisories frequently and ensure comprehensive travel insurance is in place. As regional conditions continue to shift, further aviation updates are expected.
Current airspace status across the Middle East
As of Saturday 28 February 2026, multiple countries across the region have implemented full or partial airspace restrictions, creating widespread disruption to international flight routes.
- UAE: Partially closed, described by authorities as a precautionary security measure
- Israel: Closed to all civilian air traffic
- Iran: Closed, with a total suspension of flights
- Iraq: Closed, with a total suspension of flights
- Jordan: Closed, with a total suspension of flights
- Qatar: Functionally closed due to active missile threats
- Bahrain: Functionally closed due to active missile threats
With several neighbouring airspaces shut entirely and others operating under heightened threat levels, airlines are navigating significant rerouting challenges. The cumulative effect has sharply constrained one of the busiest global transit corridors linking Europe, Asia and Australasia, with further adjustments likely as the situation evolves.
This article was first published by Condé Nast Traveller Middle East.
