Dubai airports update: DXB and DWC have resumed limited flight operations as airlines restart services. Travellers advised to confirm flights before going to airport.
The disruption began after escalating tensions across the Middle East forced several countries to close or restrict their airspace. (Photo: Social Media)
Dubai’s two major airports have begun restarting flight operations, but normal services have not yet returned. As of 9 March 2026, both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) are operating with a limited number of flights while airlines gradually bring schedules back online.
Authorities say the airports are functioning again after a brief disruption earlier this month, but travellers should expect delays and last-minute changes as the regional security situation continues to affect aviation across the Middle East.
While some international routes have resumed, airport officials stress that operations remain restricted and that passenger safety remains the top priority.
The disruption began after escalating tensions across the Middle East forced several countries to close or restrict their airspace. Airlines worldwide had to suspend, cancel, or reroute flights, affecting major travel hubs in the Gulf region.
The situation forced authorities in the UAE to temporarily halt or limit airport operations while aviation officials reviewed safety conditions. Thousands of passengers travelling between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East experienced delays or cancellations during the disruption.
Even now, aviation authorities continue to monitor the regional security situation closely as airlines gradually restore flights.
Dubai Airports confirmed that flight operations are now resuming in phases. Only selected airlines and routes are currently operating, and schedules may change frequently.
“We have partially resumed operations from today, 7 March, with some flights operating out of DXB and DWC.
Please do not travel to the airport unless you have been contacted by your airline that your flight is confirmed, as schedules continue to change,” Dubai Airports posted on X on 7 March.
Officials say the phased reopening allows airlines to slowly restart international services while ensuring security measures remain in place.
Some flights between the UAE and countries such as India and several European destinations have already restarted, although full schedules are still far from normal.
Dubai’s flagship airline, Emirates, has also begun restoring some of its services. The airline confirmed that certain flights are operating again, especially for passengers who already have confirmed bookings.
"On 7 March, Emirates took to X and mentioned that they have resumed operations and that passengers who have confirmed bookings for this afternoon’s flights may proceed to the airport. This includes customers transiting in Dubai, if their connecting flight is also operating.
Our post from 11:08am Dubai time regarding operational status is no longer current, and has been deleted to avoid causing unnecessary confusion.
— Emirates Support (@EmiratesSupport) March 7, 2026
Emirates has resumed operations. Passengers who have confirmed bookings for this afternoon’s flights may proceed to the airport. This… pic.twitter.com/j6niNfBCoI
Customers can check the flight schedule for upcoming flights, as well as book seats to travel: http://emirat.es/nowoperating.
Emirates continues to monitor the situation, and we will develop our operational schedule accordingly. We would like to thank our customers for their understanding and patience. The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority and will not be compromised.”
The airline continues to adjust its schedule depending on changes in regional airspace restrictions.
Passengers planning to travel through Dubai should prepare for possible disruptions. Airport authorities have issued several guidelines for travellers.
Officials also advised passengers to rely only on official airport and airline communication for the latest updates.
Although flights have started operating again, experts say it may take several days before full flight schedules return. Airlines are restoring routes gradually while monitoring safety conditions in the region.
For now, Dubai’s airports remain open but operating under restricted capacity, meaning travellers should stay alert for updates before planning their journey.
