Emirates Resumes Full Flight Operations Following Regional Tensions

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is rapidly restoring its flight network after a period of disruption caused by escalating regional tensions and Iranian attacks. While initial disruptions occurred on Saturday, March 7, 2026, the carrier anticipates a return to 100% of its network within the coming days, contingent upon airspace availability and operational requirements.

Initial Disruptions and Repatriation Efforts

Following drone strikes in Dubai, Emirates temporarily suspended flights and directed passengers at the airport to safety tunnels. The airline initially focused on repatriation flights for Emirati nationals and residents, as well as evacuating tourists stranded in the country. On Monday, March 3, 2026, Emirates operated repatriation flights, including one from Mumbai to Dubai, which was forced to turn around due to the threat of Iranian missiles as reported by CNBC. The same flight reversed course a second time due to the ongoing threat.

Restoration of Network and Prioritized Routes

By Saturday, March 7, Emirates was operating 106 flights a day to 83 destinations, representing almost 60% of its route network. The airline is prioritizing links to the United Kingdom, and India. Flights to London Heathrow are operating with multiple daily arrivals, with tickets available for travel starting Monday, March 9, 2026. According to The Independent, test bookings show the following resumption dates for flights from other UK airports:

• Birmingham: Friday, March 13, 2026 (6:40 am)
• Edinburgh: Thursday, March 12, 2026 (2:10 pm)
• Gatwick: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 (1:35 pm)
• Glasgow: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 (6:40 am)
• Manchester: Friday, March 13, 2026 (1:45 am)
• Newcastle: Wednesday, March 11, 2026 (6:45 am)
• Stansted: Sunday, March 15, 2026 (8:15 am)

Regional Airspace and Airline Responses

While Emirates is scaling up operations, other airlines in the region have been affected. Qatar Airways, as well as airlines from Bahrain and Kuwait, remain grounded as airspace over those countries remains closed. Latvian national air carrier airBaltic has canceled flights to and from Dubai until March 16, 2026, including a flight scheduled for March 17, 2026, but tickets are available for sale starting in April 2026, with prices beginning at 215 euros one-way.

UAE Security Concerns and Diplomatic Tensions

The disruptions come amid heightened security concerns in the UAE following Iranian attacks. Reports surfaced alleging a UAE strike on Iran, which Emirati officials vehemently denied, condemning the claims as inappropriate leaks from Israeli officials. As reported by The Times of Israel, these leaks have strained relations between Israel and Gulf countries.

Safety Remains Paramount

Emirates has emphasized that safety remains its top priority throughout the resumption of operations. The airline stated it is accommodating customers with earlier bookings as a priority and advises passengers to only proceed to the airport with a confirmed booking.