Dubai Airports Start Limited Flights March 2 After Regional Issues

Flights from Dubai are now limited, with only a few major airlines like Emirates operating. This is a change from normal schedules due to recent problems.
By Newsroom | Travel, Middle East |

Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central have begun a restricted flight schedule following a period of significant disruption. Limited services for major carriers like Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai commenced on March 2, prioritizing passengers with prior bookings. The situation remains fluid, with airlines advising travelers to confirm flight statuses online and await direct contact if their original bookings are affected.

Emirates resumes some Dubai flights – what's the latest on travel to UK? - 1

Several Emirates flights are scheduled to depart London Heathrow for Dubai on Friday and Saturday. Meanwhile, British Airways has announced additional flights from Oman to London Heathrow, though those on March 6, 7, and 8 are already fully booked. Travel to the UK may also require an 'Electronic Travel Authorisation' (ETA) for those not needing a visa for short stays. Separately, a note from Emirates indicates a future policy change where using or charging power banks on board will be prohibited from October 1.

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Emirates resumes some Dubai flights – what's the latest on travel to UK? - 2

Flight Resumption and Disruption

A limited number of flights departed from Dubai International Airport on March 3, with Emirates having five aircraft take off according to FlightRadar24. This marks a partial resumption of services after earlier cancellations. The disruption, however, continues to impact flight schedules. Passengers not on operating flights are urged not to proceed to the airport unless officially contacted.

Emirates resumes some Dubai flights – what's the latest on travel to UK? - 3

Background on Emirates Operations

In June 2025, Emirates reported resuming regular scheduled operations following a period of minimal disruption. The airline cited robust contingency plans, with only a small number of cancellations and some flights experiencing longer routes due to airspace congestion. They also stated a commitment to continuously monitoring developments, coordinating with aviation authorities, and rerouting flights away from conflict zones while adhering to stringent regulatory requirements. This past operational resilience was supported by contingency plans and systems implemented by the UAE's leadership, enabling the airline to maintain safe and uninterrupted services.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did Dubai airports start limited flights again?
Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central began a restricted flight schedule on March 2. This allows a limited number of services for major carriers to resume.
Q: Which airlines are affected by the limited flights from Dubai?
Major carriers like Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai have limited services. Passengers on these airlines should check their flight status.
Q: What should passengers do if their flight from Dubai was cancelled?
Passengers who were not on operating flights are told not to go to the airport. They should wait to be contacted directly by the airline if their booking is affected.
Q: Why are flights from Dubai limited?
Flights are limited due to significant disruption and regional turbulence. Airlines are prioritizing passengers with prior bookings and rerouting flights away from conflict zones.
Q: Are there any new rules for flying to the UK from Dubai?
Travel to the UK might need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for some people. This is for short stays if they do not need a visa.
Q: What is changing about power banks on Emirates flights?
From October 1, Emirates will not allow passengers to use or charge power banks on board their flights.