Dubai Airport Suspends Flights Amid Renewed Missile Threats from Iran

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest airport for international traffic, temporarily suspended operations on March 7, 2026, following an aerial interception during attacks originating from Iran. The disruption prompted Emirates airline to suspend all flights to and from Dubai until further notice, urging passengers to avoid traveling to the airport.

Flight Disruptions and Safety Concerns

Emirates announced the suspension of all flights to and from Dubai on Saturday, March 7, citing the demand to prioritize the safety of passengers and crew. Emirates urged passengers not to proceed to the airport and promised updates as they became available. The Dubai government’s media office stated that the suspension was enacted “for the safety of passengers, airport staff and airline crew,” and that all procedures were being managed in line with established safety protocols.

The disruption followed an aerial interception near the airport, with witnesses reporting a loud explosion and a subsequent cloud of smoke. Flightradar24 data showed aircraft circling the airport in a holding pattern prior to the suspension. The Strait Times reported that Dubai airport suspended operations and Emirates flights were halted due to missile threats and aerial interceptions.

Partial Resumption and Previous Disruptions

Flights from Dubai’s main airport had partially resumed on March 2, 2026, despite ongoing daily drone attacks targeting sites in the United Arab Emirates. Yet, the latest incident prompted a complete halt to operations. Reuters reported that Gulf carriers had resumed limited flights, but tensions remained high.

Government Response and Investigation

The Dubai government reported a “minor incident resulting from the fall of debris after an interception,” confirming no injuries. Authorities also refuted “information circulating on social media regarding incidents at Dubai International Airport” without providing further details. The Emirati Ministry of Defence stated that the nation’s air defenses were actively responding to missile and drone threats originating from Iran, but did not specify the targets of the attacks.

Emirates’ Plans for Resumption

Emirates initially planned to resume full operations in the coming days, but the latest developments have put those plans on hold. Passengers with confirmed bookings for Saturday afternoon were initially advised they could report to the airport, but this guidance was quickly superseded by the complete flight suspension. The airline continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available. The New York Times noted that Emirates and FlyDubai had begun making a small number of flights to and from Dubai starting Monday night after previous shutdowns.