If you’re planning a trip to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, or if you are already in the UAE, it’s important to stay informed about the latest developments linked to the ongoing Israel–Iran conflict that began on February 28, 2026.
The situation has created travel disruptions across parts of the Middle East, including flight rerouting, airspace restrictions, and temporary airport delays. Airlines and aviation authorities are closely monitoring the situation and advising travellers to stay updated through official channels. (1)
Let’s take a closer look at what happened, how it affects travel to the UAE, and what travellers should do next.
What Happened?
On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched military strikes on Iran (Operation Roaring Lion). Iran responded with strikes targeting Israel and Gulf nations hosting US bases, including the UAE, prompting the UAE airspace shutdown overnight. (2)
Due to the temporary UAE airspace closure, major airports such as Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), and Sharjah (SHJ) suspended or limited operations. This led to thousands of UAE flights being cancelled or diverted, affecting airlines like Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and several international carriers.
Are UAE Airports Open Now?
Yes, but only partially. As of March 10–11, 2026, flights have resumed at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports with very limited schedules. (3)
Airlines are operating selected routes while adjusting flight paths to avoid restricted airspace in nearby regions.
Travellers should keep the following in mind:
- Flight schedules may change at short notice.
- Some flights may be delayed or rerouted.
- Passengers should confirm their flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport.
Airports across the UAE continue to work with airlines and aviation authorities to maintain safe and efficient operations.
⚠️ Important: Do not go to any UAE airport unless your airline confirms your departure time directly. Dubai airport has specifically warned passengers not to show up without prior confirmation. (3)
UAE Visa Updates 2026: Extensions, Overstay Waivers, and Emergency Rules
Due to the ongoing regional travel disruptions, the UAE government introduced temporary immigration measures to support visitors. These changes aim to help travellers manage delays, visa expirations, and unexpected travel complications.
1. Automatic 30-Day Visa Extension
If your tourist, visit, or transit visa was due to expire between February 28 and March 31, 2026, it has been automatically extended by 30 days. You do not need to apply. If you need more time, you can apply for a further 30-day extension or a one-year humanitarian stay permit, both free of charge, with proof of your cancelled flights. (4)
2. Overstay Fines Waived
Normally, overstaying a UAE visa costs AED 50–100 per day. But these fines have been fully waived for anyone who could not leave because of the conflict. (5) Keep a copy of your original booking and the flight cancellation notice from your airline as proof.
3. Emergency Entry Visas at Airports
The UAE issued emergency entry visas to travellers stranded at its airports, allowing them to stay legally while waiting for flights. (5) ICP teams were deployed at all major airports under emergency protocols to process these on the spot.
4. Tourist Visa Applications Still Open
You can still apply for a UAE tourist visa. However, apply at least 7 days in advance as processing is slower than usual. If your travel is flexible, consider waiting until flights fully normalise. (4)
Embassy and Consular Service Closures
- US Embassy (Abu Dhabi) & US Consulate (Dubai): All routine visa appointments on March 2–4 were cancelled. Non-emergency US government staff were ordered to leave the UAE. (6)
- European (Schengen) Visa Centres: •Multiple embassies suspended visa interviews until at least March 8, 2026.
Always check directly with the relevant embassy before travelling to any appointment.
Travel Warnings: What Governments Are Saying
Several governments issued strong travel advisories and urged their citizens to reconsider or avoid non-essential travel to the region.
- Australia: “Do Not Travel”, the highest warning level, issued February 28, 2026. (7)
- United Kingdom: “Do Not Travel”, the highest warning level, issued February 28, 2026. (7)
- United States: “Reconsider Travel.” Citizens were told to leave using available commercial flights. (6)
- Canada: “Avoid All Travel.” Canadians were advised to leave the UAE as soon as a flight is available.
�� Insurance Warning: Travelling against your government’s advisory will likely void your travel insurance for medical emergencies and evacuations. Check with your insurer before making any plans.
How the UAE Is Helping Stranded Travellers
Despite all the chaos, the UAE government has gone out of its way to take care of travellers who got caught in the crisis:
- The government covered hotel rooms and meals for passengers stranded at UAE airports. (5)
- UAE air defences intercepted 15 ballistic missiles in a single day, protecting residents and tourists.
- Repatriation flights were organised for multiple nationalities. Australia sent four flights; the EU helped organise six for European citizens. (8)
- In Sharjah, up to 150 free hotel rooms were opened for stranded travellers through the Arada Foundation.
- All drones and light aircraft are banned nationwide to keep airspace clear for air defence systems. (7)
Related Articles:
UAE Visa Rules and Regulations in 2026
Why UAE Visa Applications Get Rejected
Documents Required for UAE Visa from India
What Should You Do?
If you are travelling to the UAE or are currently in the country, taking the right steps can help avoid complications. Follow these practical guidelines to manage flight disruptions and visa concerns.
If You Are Planning to Visit the UAE
- Check your government’s official travel advisory before making any booking.
- Do not book non-refundable tickets or hotels; conditions can change rapidly.
- Apply for your UAE visa at least 7 days in advance.
- Confirm your travel insurance still covers the UAE under the current advisory level.
- Only go to the airport once your airline has confirmed your specific flight departure.
If You Are Already in the UAE
- Register with your embassy or consulate immediately for repatriation alerts. (8)
- Keep copies of cancelled flight documents to use the overstay waiver. (4)
- Contact your airline to rebook. Emirates: free rebooking up to April 30, 2026, or full refund. Etihad: free rebooking up to May 15, 2026. (3)
- Stay at your accommodation as much as possible and follow all official guidance.
- Do not fly drones; this is actively enforced across the UAE right now.
Is the Situation Getting Better?
There are cautious signs of progress. Some diplomatic discussions and calls for de-escalation have emerged, but the situation between Israel and Iran remains uncertain as of March 11, 2026. Israel’s main international gateway, Ben Gurion Airport, has partially reopened with limited flight operations, and some Saudi consular offices have resumed visa appointments.
However, aviation experts warn that even after a confirmed ceasefire, rebuilding airline schedules takes time. (9) Expect continued disruptions through at least late March 2026. Keep checking your airline’s website and your government’s travel advisory for the latest updates.
How SmartGo E-Visa Can Help Travellers
During periods of travel uncertainty, staying informed about visa rules and requirements is essential. At SmartGo E-Visa, we assist travellers by simplifying the UAE visa application process and providing clear guidance on the latest updates. Our team helps with UAE tourist visa applications, document verification, and visa status support, ensuring travellers understand the current requirements before they travel.
If your plans are affected by flight disruptions or sudden policy changes, we help you explore available visa options and extensions so you can remain compliant with UAE regulations. Our goal is to make the process smooth and stress-free for every traveller.
Need help with your UAE visa? Apply now with SmartGo E-Visa and start your journey with confidence.
The Israel–Iran conflict has caused one of the biggest travel disruptions the UAE has ever seen. But the UAE government has responded quickly, issuing emergency visas, waiving overstay fines, providing free hotel stays, and protecting its cities. (5)
If you are affected, the key steps are simple: stay informed, keep your documents safe, contact your airline and embassy, and be patient. The UAE’s airports will fully reopen; it’s just a matter of time.
References
1) Times of India. “March 01, 2026 travel chaos: Etihad Airways halts departures from Abu Dhabi amid Iran-US-Israel tensions, issues urgent suspension notice for travellers.” March 1, 2026.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/march-01-2026-travel-chaos-etihad-airways-halts-departures-from-abu-dhabi-amid-iranusisrael-tensions-issues-urgent-suspension-notice-for-travellers/articleshow/128900676.cms
2) Al Jazeera. “Airspace closed, airlines halt flights as US, Israel attack, Iran responds.” February 28, 2026.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/2/28/airspace-closed-airlines-halt-flights-as-us-israel-attack-iran-responds
3) Wego Travel Blog. “UAE Airspace Closure: Flight Status, Affected Airlines & What Travelers Need to Know.” Updated March 10, 2026.
https://blog.wego.com/uae-airspace-closure-flight-status-affected-airlines-what-travelers-need-to-know/
4) VisaHQ News. “UAE issues emergency visa extensions and waives overstay fines for travellers stranded by regional airspace closure.” March 9, 2026.
https://www.visahq.com/news/2026-03-09/ae/uae-issues-emergency-visa-extensions-and-waives-overstay-fines-for-travellers-stranded-by-regional-air-space-closure/
5) The National (UAE). “UAE helps 30,000 travellers home amid airspace disruption caused by Iran war.” March 4–5, 2026. https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2026/03/04/uae-helps-30000-stranded-travellers-return-home-amid-airspace-disruption-caused-by-iran-war/
6) U.S. Department of State. “UAE Travel Advisory & US Embassy Operational Status.” March 2–3, 2026. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/united-arab-emirates-travel-advisory.html
7) Australian Government – Smartraveller (DFAT). “United Arab Emirates Travel Advice & Safety.” Updated March 2026. https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/middle-east/united-arab-emirates
8) CNN Travel. “Repatriation flights return citizens from the Middle East: What travellers need to know.” March 4–6, 2026. https://www.cnn.com/2026/03/04/travel/travel-advisories-middle-east-air-disruptions
9) Newland Chase. “Middle East Travel, Immigration & Corporate Mobility: FAQs for Employers.” March 6, 2026. https://newlandchase.com/crisis-advisory-faq/