Flying from the UAE This Weekend? Here’s What Travellers Need to Know
Travellers departing from the United Arab Emirates this weekend are being advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport, as several airlines continue to adjust schedules due to operational issues, regional security concerns, and seasonal travel demand.
While most major UAE airports continue to operate normally, a number of international routes have experienced delays, temporary suspensions, and revised schedules.
Flights to Southern Saudi Arabia Continue to Face Disruptions
Services between the UAE and Abha International Airport in southern Saudi Arabia remain affected, with several flights cancelled for the fourth consecutive day.
Airlines operating routes between Dubai, Sharjah, and Abha have advised passengers to verify their booking status before travelling to the airport. Domestic flights within Saudi Arabia continue to operate on many routes, but international services to Abha remain limited.
Travellers planning to visit areas close to the Saudi-Yemen border should also monitor official travel advisories issued by their respective governments.
Etihad Airways Reports Service Delays
Etihad Airways has announced delays affecting its Abu Dhabi–Toronto service due to operational reasons. The schedule adjustment has also impacted the return flight from Toronto to Abu Dhabi.
Earlier this week, some Etihad flights to London Heathrow and Washington also experienced delays because of technical and operational reasons. The airline says it is assisting affected passengers and working to minimise disruptions.
Emirates Continues Normal Operations
Emirates has not announced any significant cancellations or widespread delays.
The airline expects increased passenger traffic during the summer holiday season and recommends travellers arrive at Dubai International Airport well ahead of departure. Customers are encouraged to complete online check-in whenever possible to reduce waiting times.
Flydubai and Air Arabia Expand Services
Flydubai has increased operations for the busy summer travel period and recently resumed flights to Aleppo while adding extra services on selected international routes.
Air Arabia continues expanding its network from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah, including additional European destinations as travel demand grows.
However, flights connecting the UAE with Abha remain suspended until further notice.
India Introduces Mandatory Air Suvidha 2.0 Declaration
Passengers travelling from the UAE to India are now required to complete the Air Suvidha 2.0 digital health declaration before departure.
Travellers can submit the online form within 24 hours before arrival in India and should carry the confirmation for verification during immigration and health screening if requested.
The measure has been introduced following international public health recommendations and applies to arriving passengers from affected regions.
Several International Airlines Adjust Middle East Operations
A number of international carriers continue to revise schedules because of ongoing regional security assessments.
Some airlines have temporarily suspended services to destinations including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Tel Aviv, Beirut, and other Middle Eastern cities. Others are operating reduced schedules or offering flexible booking options, including free date changes and refunds for eligible passengers.
Travellers are advised to check directly with their airline before travelling, particularly if connecting through Europe or North America.
Growing Summer Travel Demand
Despite isolated disruptions, UAE airports are experiencing one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Airlines across the Gulf are increasing flight frequencies, adding extra capacity, and launching new routes to accommodate summer holiday demand. Popular destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East continue to see strong passenger traffic.
Travel Advice for UAE Passengers
Before leaving for the airport, travellers should confirm their flight schedule through their airline’s official website or mobile application. Keeping travel documents updated, monitoring airline notifications, and allowing extra time at the airport can help reduce delays during the busy travel season.
Passengers travelling on international routes should also review destination-specific entry requirements, health declarations, and transit regulations before departure.
As airlines continue to adjust operations based on demand and regional developments, staying informed remains the best way to ensure a smooth journey.
