Emirates, Etihad, flydubai and Air Arabia resume operations after UAE airspace reopening

Posted on 18 March 2026 By Zaghrah Anthony

UAE airlines resume flights as airspace reopens with updated schedules

After weeks of uncertainty, the skies over the United Arab Emirates are gradually returning to normal. Major carriers, Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia,  have resumed operations with updated schedules following recent airspace closures prompted by regional tensions.

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Flights restart in phases with safety first

According to Travel and Tour World , the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) reopened controlled airspace only after thorough security and safety assessments. This phased approach ensures that flights resume in a controlled, safe manner. The temporary disruptions included a brief mid-March closure triggered by a drone incident near Dubai International Airport, which authorities quickly addressed, clearing runways and mitigating safety risks.

Passengers are urged to check their flight status before heading to airports. Rapid changes remain possible as airlines adjust routes in response to safety assessments and regional conditions.

Emirates and Etihad navigate revised schedules

Emirates, operating from Dubai International Airport, is prioritising long-haul and high-demand routes. Flexibility remains key: passengers affected by the disruptions can rebook or request refunds, depending on their circumstances.

From Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways has also published revised schedules covering destinations such as London, Paris, New York, Riyadh, Tokyo, and Sydney. The airline continues to offer flexible ticket management options for those whose travel plans were disrupted.

flydubai and Air Arabia adapt amid caution

flydubai has resumed a limited number of flights with revised schedules. Certain routes may follow longer, alternate paths to accommodate airspace restrictions, potentially extending travel times.

Meanwhile, Air Arabia is operating between its UAE hubs — Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah — and a variety of regional, African, European, and Asian destinations. Flexible rebooking and refund options are being provided for travellers impacted by the temporary closures.

Travel tips for passengers

Airline officials advise travellers to:

  • Verify bookings through official airline channels before heading to the airport.

  • Monitor flight status online for real-time updates.

  • Allow extra time for check-in and security procedures.

  • Keep contact information up to date with airlines to ensure smooth communication.

Safety remains the top priority. Only flights that meet rigorous security criteria are cleared for departure, and schedules continue to be adjusted in close coordination with UAE authorities.

A resilient aviation sector

The UAE’s aviation sector has demonstrated resilience in the face of temporary closures. By prioritising passenger safety while reopening airspace gradually, authorities have managed to restore operations at Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah airports. Travellers connecting through the UAE or departing to international destinations are advised to remain vigilant, checking official updates regularly for the most accurate information.

With careful planning, passengers can navigate these adjustments and enjoy reliable service as the UAE skies steadily reopen.

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