Emirates has issued an update online as it continues flying a limited service into Dubai
19:04, Sun, Mar 22, 2026 Updated: 19:05, Sun, Mar 22, 2026
An Emirates Airbus A350 aircraft prepares for landing in Dubai (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Emirates has warned its passengers they may face disruption as they continue to fly a limited number of flights from the UK to Dubai, and vice versa. The airline has warned it will carry on "a reduced flight schedule" following the closure of the United Arab Emirates airspace after a series of drone attacks by Iran.
Several other major airlines, including British Airways, have cancelled all flights into Dubai, with the airline continuing to cancel flights to Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha and Tel Aviv. However, choosing to carry on Dubai routes, Emirates issued an update on its website. The statement reads: "Following the partial reopening of regional airspace, Emirates is operating a reduced flight schedule.
A smoke plume rises from a fire at Dubai International Airport (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
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"You can check our latest flight schedules for upcoming flights and book seats to travel. We continue to monitor the situation, and we will develop our operational schedule accordingly.
"We would like to thank you for your understanding and patience. The safety and security of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority and will not be compromised."
Arab operator Qatar Airways has even chosen to relocate part of its fleet to Teruel Airport in eastern Spain. Qatar said the move came as regional instability and airspace closures continue to disrupt operations across the Middle East.
Flight tracking data suggests around 20 aircraft are now being placed into long-term storage, with more jets expected to arrive.
The move has been described as a "strategic retreat amid regional conflict," with the airline running only a "skeleton service” since mid-March.
Emirates is continuing a limited amount of flights into Dubai (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The carrier operates flights from Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester and Newcastle.
The update on the Emirates website added: "Please continue to check your flight status, even after you have checked in. You can also review the latest operational updates on emirates.com.
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"Make sure your details are up to date to receive notifications and check your email for changes or cancellations to your flights before travelling to the airport."
"If your travel plans have been affected, we’ll do our best to rebook you on the next available Emirates flight. This applies to most disrupted tickets, including journeys connecting beyond Dubai."
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