With Israel and the US launching coordinated strikes on Iran early Saturday, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced the temporary and partial closure of the UAE’s airspace as an exceptional precautionary measure, aimed at ensuring the safety of flights and aircrews and safeguarding the territory of the UAE, amid rapidly escalating security developments in the region.
Read: US and Israel launch “pre-emptive” attack against Iran
According to the state news agency WAM, the authority stated that the decision was taken following a comprehensive assessment of security and operational risks, and in full coordination with relevant national and international authorities, stressing that airspace safety and the protection of the UAE’s air sovereignty remain absolute priorities.
The GCAA confirmed that it will continue to keep the relevant authorities and the public informed of any developments as they occur. It also renewed its call on passengers to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight schedule updates, noting that airlines, in coordination with local authorities, will provide necessary accommodation and assistance to affected passengers.
Security and safety of citizens remain a top priority, says the UAE Ministry of Interior
WAM also reported that the UAE Ministry of Interior affirmed is closely monitoring regional developments and remains at the highest level of readiness to take all necessary precautionary measures, in full coordination with relevant authorities.
The ministry stressed that the security and safety of citizens, residents, and visitors across the country remain its top priority, underscoring its unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety and stability.
Flights halted at Dubai Airports, disruptions reported at Zayed International Airport
Dubai Airports announced the suspension of all flight operations at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport until further notice, citing ongoing developments. The operator advised passengers not to travel to the airports and to contact their airlines directly for the latest flight information.
Dubai Airports confirms that all flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are suspended until further notice.
Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport at this time and to contact their respective airlines…
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) February 28, 2026
The advisory was reiterated across official channels, reinforcing guidance for travelers to check with carriers before departing for the airport.
⚠️ UPDATE: Flight operations at @DXB and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) have been suspended until further notice.
Guests are advised not to travel to the airport, and to check with their airlines for flight updates.
— DXB (@DXB) February 28, 2026
Separately, Abu Dhabi Airports said some inbound and outbound services at Zayed International Airport may face delays, diversions or cancellations due to the temporary closure of UAE airspace. The operator said it is coordinating with airlines and authorities to minimise disruption, adding that further updates will be issued as the situation develops.
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— Zayed International Airport مطار زايد الدولي (@AUH) February 28, 2026