⚠️ LIVE UPDATE - MARCH 2, 2026: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC) remain CLOSED. Emirates has suspended all operations until 3 PM Monday March 2. Over 3,000 flights cancelled, 90,000+ passengers affected daily.
This article provides the latest updates on when Dubai flights may resume, alternative options for stranded travelers, and how to get refunds or rebookings.
🛫 CURRENT AIRPORT STATUS
- DXB (Dubai International): CLOSED - Damage to Terminal 3
- DWC (Al Maktoum): CLOSED - Precautionary
- AUH (Abu Dhabi): CLOSED - 1 killed in drone strike
- SHJ (Sharjah): Limited operations
- Expected Update: March 2, 2026 at 3 PM local time
3,000+
Flights Cancelled
90,000
Daily Passengers Affected
19,000
Flights Delayed Regionally
3 PM
Next Emirates Update
Airline Updates
| Airline | Status | Next Update |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | All operations suspended | March 2, 3 PM local |
| flydubai | All flights cancelled | Awaiting GCAA clearance |
| Etihad | Abu Dhabi operations suspended | TBA |
| Qatar Airways | Some flights rerouted | March 2, 9 AM local |
| International Carriers | Most cancelled/diverted | Check airline websites |
When Will Flights Resume?
Based on current information:
Realistic Timeline
- Best Case: Limited operations resume March 2-3 if no further attacks
- Likely Case: Phased reopening March 3-5 for critical flights
- If Attacks Continue: Extended closure possible
- Terminal 3: May take longer due to structural damage assessment
What to Do If You're Stranded
Step 1: Contact Your Airline
- Emirates: +971 600 555 555 or emirates.com
- flydubai: +971 600 544 445
- Etihad: +971 600 508 808
- Most airlines offering free rebooking and refunds
Step 2: Accommodation
- Airlines providing hotel vouchers for stranded passengers
- Check with airport staff for emergency accommodation
- Hotels in Deira, Bur Dubai offering discounted rates
- Avoid areas near Jumeirah Beach (restricted access)
Step 3: Alternative Exit Routes
- Muscat (Oman): 4-5 hour drive, airport OPEN
- Bahrain: Check status (some attacks)
- Salalah (Oman): 10 hour drive, unaffected
- Car rental available at most locations
Refund & Rebooking Policies
| Airline | Refund Policy | Rebooking |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Full refund offered | Free rebooking to any date |
| flydubai | Full refund or credit | Free change allowed |
| Etihad | Full refund | No change fees |
| Most Airlines | War/crisis waivers active | Flexible rebooking |
Travel Insurance Claims
- Most travel insurance covers war and terrorism disruptions
- Document all expenses (hotels, meals, transport)
- Keep all receipts and booking confirmations
- Contact your insurance provider immediately
- FCDO/State Dept advisories trigger many policy clauses
For Dubai Residents
If you're a Dubai resident with a Golden Visa or residence permit trying to return:
- Your visa remains valid regardless of airport closures
- Consider alternative entry via Oman (drive to Al Ain border)
- Keep your Emirates ID and passport accessible
- Your property and tenancy rights are protected
Embassy Assistance
Embassies are arranging evacuation flights for their citizens:
- USA: Shelter-in-place advisory, charter flights being arranged
- UK: Flights from Sharjah being considered
- India: Air India rescue flights announced
- Register with your embassy for updates
Need Help Navigating This Crisis?
Check your residency rights and stay informed about your options.
