The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority has announced a temporary, partial closure of national airspace as an “exceptional precautionary measure,” citing an assessment of security and operational risks. Major carriers and Dubai airports have suspended or rerouted services while authorities continue to monitor and update stakeholders.
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General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) — official notice
The GCAA said the decision to implement a temporary and partial airspace closure was made after a “comprehensive and thorough assessment of security and operational risks,” and in coordination with relevant national and international authorities. The regulator said the measure aims to ensure the safety of flights, crews and passengers and to safeguard UAE airspace sovereignty. The authority confirmed it will continue to update relevant authorities and the public as developments occur and urged passengers to follow airline communications for flight status and assistance arrangements.
Dubai Airports and operations status
Dubai Airports announced that flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central — Al Maktoum International (DWC) have been suspended until further notice. Posts from the operator warned passengers not to travel to the airports without a confirmed flight status and said updates would be provided as the situation evolves. Several news outlets reporting on airport operations note widespread cancellations and ground delays across the emirate’s two hubs.
Emirates
Emirates posted a travel update notice saying it has temporarily suspended operations to and from Dubai “due to multiple regional airspace closures.” The carrier said it is monitoring developments closely and is contacting affected customers with rebooking and refund options through its channels.
Etihad Airways
Etihad issued an advisory confirming its operations from Abu Dhabi were impacted; the airline reported service suspensions and cancellations for affected sectors and directed passengers to its customer support channels for rebooking and assistance. Some Etihad services were listed as suspended until specified times while the authority and the carrier review operational feasibility.
flydubai
flydubai published operational updates stating several flights were cancelled or temporarily suspended for 28 February as a result of sudden airspace shutdowns in the region. The carrier said affected services were being handled in coordination with the relevant authorities and that impacted customers would receive direct communications.
Regional airspace and airline actions
Multiple countries in the Middle East have closed or restricted airspace amid the unfolding regional security events; international tracking and airline updates show a broad evacuation of traffic from affected corridors. International carriers have either suspended or rerouted services that normally transit the Gulf, amplifying disruptions at UAE hubs. Major global outlets reporting on the wider operational response note that several European and Asian carriers adjusted schedules and flight paths while authorities assess risks.
