Middle East Conflict Disrupts Air Travel, Strands Travelers
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Escalating tensions stemming from the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran are causing widespread disruption to air travel across the Gulf and Middle East, leaving tens of thousands of passengers stranded and prompting travel advisories from governments worldwide.
The crisis, which has seen retaliatory strikes and heightened regional instability, has led several airlines to suspend or cancel flights to key destinations including Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. British Airways has been particularly affected, announcing the suspension of all flights to Israel and Dubai through the summer. The airline extended cancellations to Amman, Bahrain, Dubai and Tel Aviv up to and including May 31, and to Doha until April 30.
“Since the situation in the Middle East began, we’ve helped thousands of customers return home and operated eight relief flights from Muscat in Oman,” British Airways stated on its website. The airline is also operating additional flights to Singapore and Bangkok to assist affected passengers.
Other airlines are also adjusting schedules. KLM has suspended all flights to Dubai, Riyadh, and Dammam until May 17, citing the need to “evaluate the situation and remain in close contact with the relevant authorities.” Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific has halted flights to Dubai until the end of next month. While Emirates continues to operate flights to Dubai, reports indicate many are flying with significantly reduced passenger numbers. Qatar Airways is currently operating a limited number of flights until March 28, 2026.
The disruptions are impacting a significant number of British nationals, with approximately 100,000 having flown back from the Middle East since the beginning of the conflict. Yvette Cooper, a UK Member of Parliament, noted that citizens were “stuck” in the region following the outbreak of fighting in late February.
The UK Foreign Office is currently advising caution or against all but essential travel to the UAE and other Gulf states. Those already in the region, including Dubai, Bahrain, and Kuwait, are urged to follow local authorities’ instructions, register their presence with the UK government, and prepare for potential security changes.
The situation remains fluid, and travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates and to monitor travel advisories issued by their respective governments.
