UAE-Kuwait Flights Hit by Disruptions as Airlines Revise Schedules

Dubai: Airlines operating between the UAE and Kuwait have cancelled or delayed several flights after Kuwait International Airport temporarily suspended operations following a series of security incidents across the country.

The disruption has affected hundreds of travellers, with Emirates, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia and Kuwait Airways issuing travel advisories and asking passengers to verify the status of their flights before leaving for the airport.

Emirates has suspended multiple services on the Dubai-Kuwait route through Sunday, including flights EK853, EK855, EK857 and EK859 from Dubai, along with the corresponding return services EK854, EK856, EK858 and EK860 from Kuwait. The airline said customers whose travel plans have been affected should contact their booking office or travel agent to discuss available options.

Etihad Airways has not announced cancellations, but its Kuwait-bound service EY653 from Abu Dhabi and the return flight EY654 were listed as “Awaiting Update” on Saturday, indicating that operational decisions remain under review as the situation develops.

Air Arabia has also withdrawn flights connecting Kuwait with Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. The cancellations cover services scheduled on both July 18 and July 19, including flights G9068, G9124 and G9121 from Sharjah, G9069, G9125 and G9122 from Kuwait, together with Abu Dhabi services 3L020, 3L022, 3L021 and 3L023.

Kuwait Airways has meanwhile begun adjusting its network after airport operations were interrupted. The airline said passengers would receive revised travel information through SMS and other registered contact details, while urging customers to monitor their bookings before travelling.

The aviation disruption follows reports of missile and drone attacks targeting military installations and strategic infrastructure in Kuwait. Authorities said air defence systems intercepted several incoming projectiles, although some attacks caused damage to energy and utility facilities. Officials also confirmed injuries but said there were no reports of civilian fatalities.

The temporary suspension of airport operations has had an immediate impact on commercial aviation, prompting airlines across the Gulf to review schedules as airspace conditions continue to evolve.

For travellers, the situation remains fluid. Airlines are advising passengers not to rely on previously issued itineraries and instead check the latest flight status directly through official airline channels before heading to the airport, as further operational changes remain possible over the coming hours.