UAE March 16 flight update: Emirates suspends flights from Dubai, Etihad Airways and Air India announce limited schedule

The escalating tensions amid the Iran vs US-Israel war, have left much of the Middle East in a crisis. From flights to roadways and even markets, every aspect of daily life has been affected while the authorities work their best to monitor the situation and calm it.

The airspace in the region, which had closed on February 28, after the news of the war broke out, had been opening up slowly with limited flights to and from the Middle East resuming. However, new developments had altered the conditions.

Emirates suspends flights to and from Dubai Airport

Emirates cancelled all its flights to and from Dubai until further notice. The airline added that it was working with relevant authorities to assess the situation and support the safe resumption of operations when possible.

The announcement comes after Dubai Airports reported a temporary suspension of flights at Dubai International Airport as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and staff. “Customers are reminded not to travel to the airport at this time and to continue checking Emirates' travel updates section for the latest information," said the airline.

Early Monday morning, the Dubai Media Office reported a drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport (DXB), the world's busiest airport. The DMO said the incident affected one of the airport's fuel tanks. "No injuries have been reported," said Dubai Media Office.

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announced the temporary suspension of flights at Dubai International Airport as a precautionary measure. Some flights from DXB are being diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) amid ongoing operational disruptions, Dubai Airports said.

Etihad Airways announce limited flights

Etihad Airways has released its latest limited flight schedule, operating to key destinations from Abu Dhabi. The airline has listed flights for March 16, allowing passengers with existing bookings to be accommodated as soon as possible.

Flight schedule from Abu Dhabi: March 16 Part 2



The airline has issued guidance for passengers:

• Check your flight status at etihad.com before travelling.
• Ensure your contact details in the booking are up to date.
• Tickets issued on or before February 28, 2026, with travel dates up to March 21, may be rebooked free of charge onto Etihad-operated flights until May 15, 2026.
• Refunds for flights until March 21 can be requested via etihad.com/en/help/refund-form or through your travel agent.

Air India and Air India Express announce plans

Air India and Air India Express announced plans to operate a total of 48 scheduled and special flights between India and Gulf countries on March 16, 2026. Both airlines will continue their regular services to Jeddah and Muscat with a total of 10 flights operating between India and Jeddah.

Air India will run return flights from Delhi and Mumbai, while Air India Express will operate services from Bengaluru, Kozhikode and Mangaluru.

Air India Express will also operate 12 scheduled flights to and from Muscat, including services from Delhi, Kannur, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram, along with two flights from Kochi.

In addition to scheduled operations, the airlines plan to run 26 additional non-scheduled flights connecting India with the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Passengers booked on routes that remain temporarily suspended can rebook their travel for a later date without extra charges or request a full refund.