Iran-Israel War Flight Cancellations: Several airlines in the United Arab Emirates, including Emirates, Etihad Airlines and flydubai, have gradually resumed operations following days of disruptions due to tensions between the US-Israel alliance and Iran. In the wake of US-Israeli strikes that began on February 28 and killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, many countries in the Middle East closed their airspace. The United Arab Emirates was among the nations that temporarily shut its airspace.
Following the partial reopening of its airspace, several airlines, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Fly Dubai, have gradually resumed operations.
If your flight is cancelled, here's how you can manage refunds or rebook with major airlines in the UAE:
Emirates: Emirates is operating a limited number of flights from Dubai. Passengers are advised to travel only with confirmed bookings. Transit passengers will be accepted only if their connecting flights are operating.
- Rebooking: Passengers who have booked flights between February 28 and March 31 can rebook to the same destination for travel on or before April 30 without any fees.
- Refunds: Full refunds are available for cancelled flights, including unused portions of multi-leg journeys. Passengers should contact Emirates directly if booked through the airline, or their travel agent if booked via an agent.
Passengers are advised not to reschedule or request refunds via the 'Manage My Booking' option on the airline website or mobile app to avoid incorrect fees. Skywards Miles and Tier Miles will be credited for passengers who rebook on another airline. For hotel vouchers issued during disruptions, contact Emirates for guidance.
Etihad Airways: Etihad Airways has resumed a limited number of flights from Friday, March 6, operating to 25 key destinations.
- Rebooking: Passengers with tickets issued on or before February 28 can rebook for free till May 15. This applies to journeys scheduled up to March 21.
- Refunds: Full refunds are available for cancelled flights, including unused portions of multi-leg journeys. Bookings made through a travel agent must be handled directly with the agent.
Passengers are advised to travel only with confirmed bookings. The airline has urged passengers to check flight status at etihad.com and ensure their contact information details are up to date to receive notifications.
Flydubai: flydubai has resumed operations across its network with a reduced schedule.
Rebooking: Passengers who have booked flights between February 28 and March 31 can rebook alternative flights up to 30 days prior to the original travel date without any fees.
Refunds: Flight cancellations are generally refunded as a flydubai voucher, depending on the fare type. Cash refunds are generally not offered.
Passengers have been urged to manage their bookings online via the Customer Service Centre or through travel agents or shops.