Emirates suspends Dubai flights again: here’s how South African travellers are affected

If you’re planning a trip to or from Dubai, it’s time to pause and check your travel plans. Emirates has temporarily suspended all flights to and from Dubai International Airport following a drone-related incident that caused a fuel tank fire near the airport. Fortunately, authorities report no injuries, but safety precautions remain in place.

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According to The Citizen, Dubai Civil Defence teams quickly contained the fire, and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority has halted flights at the main airport, with some diverted to Al Maktoum Airport. Some flights are even returning to their points of departure.

Flights to and from South Africa

For South African travellers, the disruption affects routes to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, though schedules are evolving throughout the day:

Johannesburg:

• EK761 and EK763 (Dubai → Johannesburg) are likely suspended.

• EK765 and EK767 (Dubai → Johannesburg) are currently scheduled, but travellers should stay updated.

• EK764 (Johannesburg → Dubai) likely suspended; EK768 and EK766 are scheduled.

Cape Town:

• EK770 (Dubai → Cape Town) remains scheduled.

• EK772 (Tuesday) likely suspended.

• EK771 (Cape Town → Dubai) is cancelled.

Durban:

• EK776 (Durban → Dubai) has no flight info and may be suspended.

Travellers are strongly encouraged to contact Emirates directly for the latest flight updates, as schedules may shift throughout the day.

Travel safety and context

The temporary suspension comes amid the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, raising tensions across the region. While the Dubai fuel tank incident is unrelated to military activity, it underscores how geopolitical instability can ripple through global aviation.

Airports Company South Africa is monitoring the situation and providing updates as they become available. Social media reactions show many travellers expressing frustration, while others have praised the quick response and safety measures taken by Dubai authorities.

For now, the key takeaway is simple: check before you travel, stay patient, and keep an eye on official updates. This developing story highlights how rapidly situations can change at major international hubs, especially in times of regional tension.