UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman flight delays as airspace closures cause travel disruption at Gulf airports
Airlines, airports and aviation authorities in the UAE and across the GCC announced travel disruption amid temporary airspace closures and rescheduled flights.
The UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain all saw temporary closures of airspace following a targeted rocket of Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards.
As Governments closed airspace, some airlines announced suspended flights to and from the UAE, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain.
UAE airport updates
Airports across the UAE advised passengers to check with airlines to confirm flights after temporary pauses to travel.
In a statement Dubai Airports said it had 'resumed full operations at its airports in the emirate following a temporary precautionary pause. The safety and wellbeing of all travellers and aviation staff remain the highest priority.
Dubai Airports has resumed full operations at its airports in the emirate following a temporary precautionary pause. The safety and wellbeing of all travellers and aviation staff remain the highest priority.
While Dubai Airports is working with airlines to ensure flights operate…
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 23, 2025
'While Dubai Airports is working with airlines to ensure flights operate according to schedule, some flights may experience delays or cancellations. Travellers are advised to stay informed by checking regularly with their airlines for the latest updates'.
Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi said: 'The safety of our travellers is our foremost priority. As of June 24, 2025, in light of current events and flight disruptions, Abu Dhabi Airports advises all passengers to check with their airlines before heading to the airport'.
#تنويه #مطار_الشارقة #الشارقة #الإمارات #السفر #حول_العالم #SharjahAirport #Sharjah #UAE #travel #aroundtheglobe #Announcement pic.twitter.com/jmSvv3fEPa
— مطار الشارقة (@sharjahairport) June 23, 2025
Sharjah Airport took to social media to tell passangers: 'Sharjah Airport advises all passengers to stay up to date on the latest flight information, as a number of flights have been cancelled or delayed today due to airspace closures in certain areas.
'We strongly encourage passengers to contact airlines directly to verify the status of their flights before heading to the airport'.
Dubai carrier Emirates said it had rerouted several flights enroute to the UAE.
It said: 'Due to the recent regional situation, a number of Emirates flights were rerouted enroute to Dubai on June 23, but there were no diversions.
'After a thorough and careful risk assessment, Emirates will continue to operate flights as scheduled, using flight paths well distanced from conflict areas.
'Some flights may incur delays due to longer re‑routings or airspace congestion, but Emirates' teams are working hard to keep to schedule and minimise any disruption or inconvenience to our customers'.
Earlier, Emirates shared an updated list of suspended flights on its website.
In an official statement, it said: 'Due to the regional situation, Emirates has temporarily suspended all flights to:
Iran (Tehran) and Iraq (Baghdad and Basra), until and including Monday 30 June 2025
'We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers. We continue to closely monitor developments. The safety of our passengers, employees and operations will always be our top priority'.
Etihad has suspended flights to Tel Aviv, Israel until July 15 and cancelled selected flights in the region.
In a statement, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier said: 'Etihad has suspended all flights between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Tel Aviv (TLV) until and including 15 July.
'Guests transiting through Abu Dhabi to connect to cancelled flights will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin. Impacted guests are being assisted with alternative travel arrangements.
'This remains a highly dynamic situation, and further changes or disruption, including sudden airspace closures or operational impact, may occur at short notice. Etihad continues to monitor developments closely in coordination with the relevant authorities and is taking all necessary precautions'.
The Abu Dhabi carrier also announced the following flights were cancelled:
EY651 on June 24 from Abu Dhabi to Kuwait and EY652 from Kuwait to Abu Dhabi
EY663 on June 24 from Abu Dhabi to Doha and EY664 from Doha to Abu Dhabi
EY575 on June 24 from Abu Dhabi to Dammam and EY576 from Dammam to Abu Dhabi
EY690 on June 24 from Abu Dhabi to Muscat and EY691 from Muscat
Air Arabia has seen major disruption to flights to and from Sharjah.
The airline's latest advisory said: 'Due to the escalating situation and airspace closures across the region, some flights may experience disruptions.
'Customers are advised to check their flight status for the latest updates prior to heading to the airport. Affected passengers will be notified directly via SMS and email. Air Arabia remains fully committed to the safety of our customers and crew, and we continue to closely monitor the situation'.
Air Arabia has temporarily suspended all flights to and from the following countries, as follows:
Iran: Until and including Monday, June 30
Iraq: Until and including Monday, June 30
Russia: Until and including Monday, June 30
Armenia: Until and including Monday, June 30
Georgia: Until and including Monday, June 30
Azerbaijan: Until and including Monday, June 30
Jordan: Until and including Thursday, June 26
UAE-carrier flydubai shared an updated list of suspended flights.
As of July 23, flydubai said: 'Due to the current situation and the closure of certain airspace corridors, flydubai has temporarily suspended flights to and from the following countries and airports until June 30:
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Syria
St. Petersburg
'Passengers connecting through Dubai with final destinations in any of the above countries or airports will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin until further notice.
'Passengers departing from or arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB) are encouraged to check their flight status on flydubai.com for the latest updates. Please note that some other flights may be subject to delays or rerouting.
'We apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. flydubai continues to monitor the situation closely, the safety of our passengers, crew, and operations remains our highest priority'.
Qatar shuts then reopens airspace
As part of Qatar's commitment to the safety of its citizens, residents, and visitors, the relevant authorities announced a temporary suspension of air traffic in the country's airspace.
It came as part of a series of precautionary measures taken in response to recent developments in the region. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised in a statement Monday that official authorities are closely and continuously monitoring the situation, assessing developments in coordination with regional and international partners, and will provide the public with updated information in a timely manner through official channels.
The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority later announced the resumption of air traffic in the airspace of the State of Qatar and the return of the atmosphere to normal, after taking the necessary measures in coordination with the relevant authorities.
Accordingly, Qatar Airways announced a short halt to flights in and out of the country.
After resuming flights, the national carrier said: 'Qatar Airways confirms the re-opening of airspace in the State of Qatar.
'We are working closely with government stakeholders and the relevant authorities to support any passengers that have been impacted, and will resume operations as quickly as possible.
'As usual operations resume, we anticipate significant delays to our flight schedule. We would advise passengers to check qatarairways.com or the Qatar Airways mobile application ahead of travel.
'The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority'.
Kuwait shuts then reopens airspace
Kuwait's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced a temporary closure of Kuwaiti airspace as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of the country.
After the short closure, the DGCA then announced the re-opening of Kuwaiti airspace and resumption of air traffic to and from Kuwait International Airport.
In a press release, the DGCA said the move came in collaboration with Kuwaiti relevant bodies and in continued cooperation with concerned regional and international agencies and following the stabilization of the surrounding situation.
The DGCA added that the decision also reflects its keenness on ensuring the highest standards of safety and security in the Kuwaiti airspace and considering the precise assessments of specialised teams in cooperation with relevant local and international bodies.
Kuwait Airways suspended all departing flights until further notice, citing passenger safety and compliance with national aviation directives.
The airline also announced the diversion of incoming flights to alternate airports due to closed airspace. Rerouted flights included:
KU162 from Geneva
KU168 from Paris
KU126 from Sarajevo
KU114 from Manchester
KU198 from Baku
KU174 from Munich
KU102 and KU108 from London
KU164 from Milan
The airline confirmed that all diverted aircraft landed safely.
Meanwhile, Jazeera Airways confirmed that flights in and out of Kuwait are suspended until further notice. In a statement, it said: 'Due to the closure of Kuwait's airspace, all Jazeera Airways flights are suspended or delayed until further notice. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority.
'Passengers booked to travel from or to Kuwait are requested not to report to the airport unless notified. Flight operations on several other routes will also be affected.
'We are closely monitoring the situation and will notify affected passengers of any schedule changes. We also recommend checking your flight status before heading to the airport'.
Bahrain temporarily shuts airspace
The Civil Aviation Affairs of the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications announced the complete reopening of airspace in the skies of the Kingdom of Bahrain.
It came after a short closure of Bahraini airspace after the department of Civil Aviation Affairs of the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications announced the temporary suspension of air navigation in the skies of the Kingdom as a precautionary measure in light of recent regional developments.
National carrier Gulf Air said: 'Gulf Air announces the resumption of its flights following the reopening of Bahrain airspace. We regret any inconvenience caused and thank our customers for their patience and understanding'.
Oman Airlines suspend flights
Oman's SalamAir and Oman Air announced temporary suspensions of flights to some Gulf countries.
A statement from Oman Air said: 'In light of recent developments in the region, Oman Air flights to and from Manama, Dubai, Doha and Kuwait have been temporarily suspended.
'Flights across the rest of our network may be delayed as a result of longer paths. The airline asks its guests to check their flight status on our website at Omanair.com before leaving for the airport'.
pic.twitter.com/7GTZpXox67
— Oman Air (@omanair) June 23, 2025
SalamAir also shared an official statement, saying: 'Due to the current situation in the region and the closure of the airspace, SalamAir flights to and from Iran, Iraq, Azerbaijan, and Qatar are temporarily suspended.
'Other SalamAir flights may experience delays due to these disruptions; passengers are requested to check the latest updates on SalamAir.com prior to arriving at the airport.
'We are closely monitoring the developments of the situation, and we will resume flights when possible'.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The National
12 hours ago
- The National
Rove Al Marjan Island review: The budget-friendly brand drawing crowds in booming Ras Al Khaimah
The Rove Hotels format arrived on our shores in 2019 as a price-conscious but fun alternative for travellers seeking to enjoy Dubai without blowing their budget. Ten properties have since opened around the city and the homegrown brand recently extended its laid-back appeal to Ras Al Khaimah. Rove Al Marjan Island is a 441-room beachfront hotel that readily caters to couples, families and digital nomads who crave vibrancy and price over frills and formality. The welcome The vehicle entrance arrives suddenly on the main island road and opens on to a short drive and a spacious car park. Rovers – as guests are playfully referred to – can drop their luggage and passengers in front of the lobby or go straight to self-parking and wheel their bags across. We chose the latter on spotting a coach arrive. However, it's an immediate glimpse of Rove's refreshing less-fuss format, something echoed when we venture unaccompanied to the lifts after a swift and friendly check-in. The room Not really fans of an unnecessary curated room introduction, my wife and I find our way along a colourful corridor to our fifth floor, sea-facing accommodation. Breezy but formulaic designs prevail in Rove hotels, from licence-plate-style room numbers to the digs themselves. An open wardrobe and storage area flanks a comfy bed, opposite a widescreen TV that features seemingly every news channel except the BBC or CNN. There's no robe, but additional amenities such as extra pillows, shaving kits and an ironing board can be requested. There is, however, a fridge and an invigorating rain shower. Rove loves an inspirational message as well as seaside-inspired artwork. 'The beach is not just a place, it's a feeling,' the wall above our bed reveals. The food Rove regulars will be familiar with the brand's main dining option, The Daily. The venue for breakfast, lunch and dinner is spacious, but eclectic decor and furniture and smart layout lends it an almost intimate feel. Primarily buffet-orientated, guests can choose a la carte – although it was suggested on our arrival that only the former was available, only for ordered dishes to land on nearby tables. The organic sea bass (Dh99) and acacia chicken club sandwich (Dh71) looked promising, however, and serendipity meant buffet access to the finest paneer jalfrezi I've sampled in a while, with salads of pumpkin and squash, plus quinoa with molasses also shining. Grilled fish with beurre blanc and beef shashlik also proved a hit on our table, as did refreshing soft drinks named Floral Fall and Sunrise Surprise. Day-time snacks and refreshments can also be had from the Rove Beachside Truck and the Pool Bar, which offers a great selection of food including a tomato flatbread (Dh57) substantial enough for sharing. If you crave further evening options, you're a short walk from food trucks on the island promenade and F&B at neighbouring hotels. The breakfast scene Open only since in April, Rove Al Marjan Island staff seemingly have had to hit the ground running. Not least at the busiest breakfast session we've witnessed in a while. Everyone seems to find a table, however, before heading to a buffet that includes a decent fruit and salad selection, baked goodies and hot options such as ful medames, scrambled eggs and sausages. Guests can also order one item each from a menu that includes basil and rhubarb bircher muesli and mango lavender waffles. We can vouch for the semi-dried tomato-powered Mediterranean omelette and a decadent acai super jar that includes agave, basil seeds, almond butter, passion fruit and mint concasse. No shakshuka here (as previously swooned over at Rove La Mer), but the buffet does yield croissant and blueberry bake, a revelation washed down with TWG tea. Accessibility and sustainability Plenty of ramps in to and out of the hotel, across to the pool and through to the beach make this Rove very friendly towards wheelchair users. And the property's sustainability credentials are evident with its 'hang your towel to reuse' messaging in the bathroom and leave-behind shampoo and shower gels – plus its use of refillable glass water bottles with a label announcing 'plastic ain't fantastic'. The Rove's adherence to Ras Al Khaimah's Green Building Regulations includes composting all food waste. Hotel facilities The main pool immediately stands out. A sensible rectangle, generous in relation to the hotel, it is lined with plenty of loungers and shallow enough for supervised children to enjoy. The beach is a few steps away with a buoy rope boundary to keep jet-skiers and other water sporting folk a safe distance from swimmers. There's a quieter area with double loungers and cabanas to one side of the main pool zone. On the other side, a big screen shows movies and sports on a grassy area soundtracked by a DJ operating evenings out of a VW camper van, occasionally joined by a fire poi performer. Another nice – and practical touch – is a significant luggage storage area, each unit bearing the name of an area in RAK, and beyond. Beside this is one of two fitness areas. Inside features plenty of new Life Fitness equipment while outside there's a Woodsman Fitness 'Jungle Gym', a Flintstones-style workout area with wooden weights and more. The co-working space – typical of Rove hotels – is blessed with natural light and busy with digital nomads, some possibly making use of Rove's monthly stay deals. Family-friendly factor Younger Rovers were evidently part of the brief when designers pondered RAK Rove, from surfboard-adapted pool showers to the strong use of colour throughout. There's a dedicated indoor play area with TV and soft toys, and a soft-play zone outside beside a small, family-only pool. Value for money Rove Al Marjan Island combines good value with a fun vibe. A sea view room for Dh474 ($132), including taxes, for up to three people is hard to beat for a fresh property with direct beach access and a generous pool in one of the hottest real estate locations in the UAE – all close to the emerging Wynn resort. Check-in is from 4pm (earlier if pre-booked) and check-out is at 2pm.
The National
12 hours ago
- The National
National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah showcases Emirati history
While many visitors to Ras Al Khaimah head straight to the mountains or mangroves, those looking to understand the emirate's roots would do well to spend a little time within the coral-stone walls of the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah. Housed in a historic fort that's been destroyed at least twice in its lifetime – once in the 1600s and again in 1820 – the museum offers a charming cultural experience. Beyond the thoughtfully curated exhibitions, the beautiful courtyard and fascinating archaeological finds, it's the warmth of the staff – and the offer of Arabic coffee or tea in the majlis before you leave – that makes any visit stand out for us. The fort was once home to the ruling Al Qawasim family before it was used as a police station and later transformed into a museum in 1987. Today, it recounts thousands of years of this region's layered history, from ancient settlements and maritime trade to tribal traditions and pearling life. Why go there? This is for anyone curious about the UAE's heritage, especially the northern emirates. The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah may not shout for your attention, but it earns it, offering a quieter, more intimate look at traditional life than the larger institutions in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. You'll find archaeological objects from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, including artefacts from the nearby settlements and a rare 17th-century Jewish gravestone, believed to be the only one of its kind discovered in the UAE. Also discover a madbasa, or date press, which was unearthed on the premises, having been forgotten and buried for decades. Ethnographic displays bring to life the emirate's fishing and pearling history, agricultural tools, date syrup production, tribal weapons and traditional jewellery. Access the various exhibits from the spacious, foliage-rich courtyard, stepping inside former living quarters and towers through traditional Arabian doors – much of the building's original charm has been painstakingly preserved. But this museum isn't just about the past. It's also about living traditions, which is seen in the warm welcome you receive from staff, who are happy to share insights, stories and a cup of gahwa before you go. What you'll see Start your visit in the main hall, where you'll learn about the history of the building, before stepping outside into the courtyard and moving into the archaeology gallery, where items dating back to 5,000 BC chart Ras Al Khaimah's role in regional trade and settlement. You'll also see pottery from Julfar (the emirate's old name), bronze tools and artefacts from the pre and early Islamic periods. Other exhibits delve into the emirate's traditional economy, from pearling and boatbuilding to fishing, while a dedicated gallery showcases regional silver jewellery, clothing and weaponry. Currently, there's also a wonderful temporary exhibition on Emirati weddings, taking visitors through the traditional matrimony process, showcasing bridal dresses, ceremonial items and dowry, plus personal stories that highlight the evolution of wedding customs in the emirate. At the moment, some areas of the museum are undergoing renovation to preserve the structure and improve the visitor experience, so certain galleries may be closed or restricted. For part of the year, it's also too hot to properly explore the outdoor areas of the museum, which include climbing up to the roof and taking in the surrounding views of the old city. Star attraction While the museum is rich in historical details, the highlight of our visit is the interaction with the staff. Before leaving, we were invited to sit in the museum's majlis, where dallahs of freshly brewed chai and gahwa were offered as we got to know more about the people who work there. We also loved the small souvenir shop beyond the majlis and made sure to pick up a couple of extremely affordable keepsakes before leaving. What to know before you go It's not high-tech in the least, but more of a traditional museum experience, with simple presentation and bilingual signage. It's done well, though, and this is precisely why it's so charming. If you're in Ras Al Khaimah, we highly recommend stopping by. Allow at least one hour for your visit, depending on how thoroughly you want to explore each room. The museum is located on Al Hisn Road and is easy to reach by car or taxi from the city centre. Free parking is available outside the front door. Ticket price and location Entry is Dh5 per person. The museum is open Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 6pm, and on Fridays from 2pm to 8pm. It's closed on Mondays.
Arabian Business
16 hours ago
- Arabian Business
Dubai announces 2-month diversions on major roads
The RTA has announced a series of traffic diversions on major roads in Dubai. Two-month diversions have been announced at Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Emirates Road and the Dubai–Al Ain Road, with the Roads and Transport Authority advising alternative routes. All three diversions are to allow for rainwater and groundwater drainage works on roads in the Emirate and will last for an expected two months. The RTA advised motorists plan trips in advance to ensure smooth travel during this period. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road diversion The RTA revealed a two-month diversion on the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and suggested alternative routes. The RTA said: 'To carry out rainwater and groundwater drainage works along with road resurfacing, a traffic diversion will be implemented at Al Barari Underpass on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road for two months starting June 28, 2025. 'Commuters can use the alternative routes via the Dubai–Al Ain Bridge (U-turn towards Jebel Ali) or the Global Village Underpass and Umm Suqeim Street intersection (U-turn towards Sharjah)'. To carry out rainwater and groundwater drainage works along with road resurfacing, a traffic diversion will be implemented at Al Barari Underpass on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road for two months starting 28 June 2025. Commuters can use the alternative routes via the Dubai–Al Ain… — RTA (@rta_dubai) June 27, 2025 Emirates Road diversion The RTA revealed there will be a two-month diversion on Emirates Road and suggested alternative routes. In a separate statement on social media, the RTA said: 'A traffic diversion will be implemented at Mudon Underpass on Emirates Road for two months starting June 28, 2025. 'The works include rainwater and groundwater drainage system upgrades along with road resurfacing. 'Commuters can use the alternative routes via Underpass 7 (U-turn towards Jebel Ali) or from Hessa Street to Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Street (towards Dubai)'. A traffic diversion will be implemented at Mudon Underpass on Emirates Road for two months starting 28 June 2025. The works include rainwater and groundwater drainage system upgrades along with road resurfacing. Commuters can use the alternative routes via Underpass 7 (U-turn… — RTA (@rta_dubai) June 27, 2025 Dubai–Al Ain Road diversion The RTA revealed a two-month further diversion and suggested alternative routes. On X, the RTA said: 'A temporary traffic diversion will be implemented at Umm Al Daman Underpass on Dubai–Al Ain Road starting June 28, 2025, lasting two months. 'The works aim to improve rainwater and groundwater drainage, along with road resurfacing. Commuters are advised to take the alternative route via Umm Nahad Bridge (Intersection 4), where a U-turn towards Dubai will be available to help ensure a smoother journey'. A temporary traffic diversion will be implemented at Umm Al Daman Underpass on Dubai–Al Ain Road starting 28 June 2025, lasting two months. The works aim to improve rainwater and groundwater drainage, along with road resurfacing. Commuters are advised to take the alternative… — RTA (@rta_dubai) June 26, 2025 Dubai diversions explained Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road Al Barari Underpass June 28, 2025 2 months Rainwater and groundwater drainage, road resurfacing – Dubai–Al Ain Bridge (U-turn towards Jebel Ali) – Global Village Underpass & Umm Suqeim St (U-turn towards Sharjah) Emirates Road Mudon Underpass June 28, 2025 2 months Rainwater ∧ groundwater drainage, road resurfacing – Underpass 7 (U-turn towards Jebel Ali) – Hessa St to Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed St (towards the city) DXB–Al Ain Road Umm Al Daman Underpass June 28, 2025 2 months Rainwater and groundwater drainage, road resurfacing – Umm Nahad Bridge (Intersection 4), U-turn towards the city All three diversions on the major roads in the emirate will begin on June 28 and are expected to be in place for two months and until the end of summer.
