Israel-Iran Conflict: UAE airlines' latest flight suspension announcement, key info for travellers

Etihad has halted flights to Tel Aviv until July 15, while multiple UAE carriers suspend routes to Iran, Iraq, and Syria amid escalating Israel-Iran tensions.(Representational Image)
In the wake of the United States joining Israel in conducting military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, several major airlines in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Emirates, Etihad, Flydubai, and Air Arabia, have announced extensive suspensions and rerouting of flights across the Middle East and parts of Eastern Europe.
The decisions follow widespread airspace closures and growing regional instability, with aviation authorities and experts warning of further disruptions and urging heightened caution.
Mounting Tensions Lead to Flight Cancellations and Suspensions
On Sunday, UAE carriers moved swiftly to adjust operations in response to the rapidly evolving security situation. The US-led strikes on Iranian nuclear sites have significantly impacted aviation routes, particularly over Iran, Iraq, and Syria, prompting immediate action from Gulf airlines.
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways announced it is suspending all flights to Tel Aviv until July 15, citing the 'ongoing military conflict' as the reason. The airline issued a statement clarifying its position:
'Guests transiting through Abu Dhabi on their way to cancelled destinations will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin. Affected passengers are being offered alternative travel arrangements,' Etihad said.
Etihad also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the current security environment:
'This remains a highly dynamic situation. Additional changes or disruptions, including sudden airspace closures, may occur at short notice. Etihad is closely monitoring developments in coordination with relevant authorities and is taking all necessary precautions,' the airline added.
In a separate issue, Etihad confirmed that flight EY652 from Kuwait International Airport (KWI) to Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) was cancelled on Sunday due to a technical issue, unrelated to the broader regional conflict.
Other UAE Airlines Follow Suit with Broad Suspensions
Dubai-based budget carrier Flydubai also suspended flights to multiple destinations. The airline announced a temporary halt in services to and from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and St. Petersburg until June 30, 2025.
In a statement, Flydubai advised:
'Passengers connecting through Dubai to any of the affected destinations will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin until further notice.'
Flydubai further cautioned travelers that:
'Please note that some flights may also face delays or rerouting.'
Meanwhile, Emirates, Dubai's flagship airline, confirmed the temporary suspension of all flights to Iran (Tehran) and Iraq (Baghdad and Basra) until June 30, 2025, following heightened airspace risks.
Air Arabia, based in Sharjah, implemented the most extensive list of suspensions, halting flights to and from:
Iran
Iraq
Russia
Armenia
Georgia
Azerbaijan
These suspensions are in effect through the end of the month. Additionally, flights to Jordan are suspended until June 25, 2025.
The airline cited both airspace restrictions and broader regional security concerns.
Air Arabia advised:
'Several other flights are being delayed or rerouted as a result. Passengers transiting through Sharjah or Abu Dhabi to any of the affected destinations will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin until further notice.'
Regional and Global Concerns Intensify
The US military's involvement in striking Iranian nuclear targets has sparked significant alarm across the region.
Aviation experts have warned that the situation could escalate quickly, increasing the risk of further disruptions to air travel throughout the Middle East.
Destinations particularly vulnerable to sudden cancellations or route changes include:
Syria
Iraq
Iran
Israel
Jordan
Several Gulf nations, including the UAE, have voiced concern and called for restraint, urging all parties to de-escalate and prioritize regional stability.
What Travelers Should Know
For passengers booked on upcoming flights across the affected regions, UAE airlines recommend the following:
Check airline websites regularly for updates and rebooking options
Avoid onward travel to UAE hubs (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah) if connecting to suspended destinations
Expect rerouting or delays, even if traveling to unaffected areas nearby
This is a developing situation, and UAE carriers have stated that operations are subject to rapid change depending on security assessments and airspace restrictions.
Travelers are urged to stay updated through official airline channels and consult with their respective embassies if flying to or through volatile regions.

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