In a significant sign of recovery, Dubai International Airport (DXB) has resumed limited operations as of March 2-3, 2026. The first Emirates A380 aircraft have departed for European destinations, offering hope to over 100,000 stranded passengers.
However, the situation remains challenging with 80%+ of flights still cancelled and ongoing security concerns. If you're a Golden Visa holder or Dubai resident stranded abroad, here's what you need to know.
✈️ DUBAI AIRPORT STATUS - MARCH 3, 2026
- Status: LIMITED OPERATIONS - Partially Open
- DXB: Select flights departing from Terminal 1 & 2
- DWC: Al Maktoum also handling limited flights
- Emirates: First 5 A380s departed March 3 morning
- Cancellation Rate: 80%+ flights still cancelled
First Emirates Flights Departed
On Tuesday morning (March 3), Emirates operated its first post-attack departures:
| Flight | Destination | Aircraft | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| EK001 | London Heathrow (LHR) | A380 | ✓ Departed |
| EK071 | Paris CDG (CDG) | A380 | ✓ Departed |
| EK045 | Frankfurt (FRA) | A380 | ✓ Departed |
| EK017 | Manchester (MAN) | A380 | ✓ Departed |
| EK801 | Jeddah (JED) | A380 | ✓ Departed |
Priority Boarding
Emirates announced that customers with earlier bookings will take priority for available seats. If you had a cancelled flight, contact Emirates to rebook on these limited services.
Current Operations Status
What's Operating
- Emirates: Limited A380 flights to Europe and Saudi Arabia
- Etihad: Repatriation and cargo flights only (regular service suspended)
- flydubai: Select regional flights being assessed
- International Carriers: Most services remain suspended
Why 80% Still Cancelled?
Despite partial reopening, most flights remain cancelled due to:
- Airspace Restrictions: Iranian, Iraqi, and parts of Saudi airspace closed
- Security Concerns: Ongoing conflict means continued risk
- Terminal Damage: Terminal 3 (Emirates hub) still under repair
- Crew Availability: Many crew members stranded or unable to work
- Insurance Issues: War risk insurance requirements
Regional Airport Status
| Airport | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai (DXB) | LIMITED | Select flights, 80%+ cancelled |
| Abu Dhabi (AUH) | LIMITED | 50%+ flights cancelled |
| Doha (DOH) | CLOSED | Hit by strikes, operations suspended |
| Kuwait (KWI) | CLOSED | Damaged in attacks |
| Bahrain (BAH) | CLOSED | Security concerns |
| Muscat (MCT) | OPEN | Best alternative hub |
What Passengers Should Do
If You're Stranded in Dubai
- Check Emirates app/website for rebooking options
- Visit airport only if you have confirmed booking
- Expect long queues and delays
- Consider alternative routes via Muscat (Oman)
- Hotels offering extended crisis rates
If You're Trying to Return to Dubai
- Book on confirmed operating flights only
- Consider routing via Muscat and driving
- Your Golden Visa grants guaranteed re-entry
- Contact your airline for priority rebooking
Travel Insurance Reminder
Most travel insurance policies cover war-related disruptions. Document:
- Original booking confirmations
- Cancellation notices from airline
- Receipts for emergency accommodation
- Additional transportation costs
Business Travelers
If you're a Dubai business owner or have meetings scheduled:
- Consider video conferencing alternatives
- Postpone non-essential travel
- Document business losses for insurance
- Free Zone authorities extending deadlines
Dubai Is Recovering
The resumption of flights is a positive sign. Dubai's infrastructure is resilient, and normal operations will return. Plan your return with confidence.
