Air Baltic Suspends Flights to Dubai Amidst Middle East Conflict, Latvia Prepares Repatriation Flights

Latvian airline airBaltic has temporarily suspended flights to and from Dubai due to the ongoing security situation in the Middle East and airspace closures. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and Ministry of Transport (MoT) are preparing an order to facilitate repatriation flights for Latvian nationals currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Flight Cancellations and Repatriation Efforts

All airBaltic flights to and from Dubai are cancelled until March 2, 2026, inclusive. This includes flight BT792 from Dubai to Riga, scheduled for March 3, 2026. airBaltic is prioritizing vulnerable individuals and families with children for repatriation.

Regional Security Situation

The flight suspensions come amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, following strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran. Iran has responded with counterstrikes targeting Israel and US military facilities in Bahrain and other Gulf countries. Reports indicate that areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been affected by these conflicts, including strikes on luxury hotels and the Dubai airport. Recent reports indicate a drone strike near the US consulate in Dubai caused a fire.

Traveler Assistance and Registration

The Latvian MFA is advising travelers to carefully evaluate the necessity of travel to the region, noting that while Egyptian airspace remains open, closures in other countries may cause flight disruptions. As of March 4, 2026, 676 Latvian nationals have registered their short-term trips to the region through the Consular Register, with the majority (576) located in the UAE. airBaltic has suspended flights due to the current security situation.

Latvian nationals requiring assistance can contact the MFA’s 24-hour duty officer at +371 26337711 or via email at palidziba@mfa.gov.lv. Lithuanian nationals in the UAE are encouraged to register through the “Keliauk saugiai” app or contact the Lithuanian Embassy at +971 2 777 4000 or amb.ae@mfa.lt / consul.ae@mfa.lt. Further information is available on the airBaltic Facebook page.

Ongoing Monitoring and EU Coordination

The MFA notes that other European Union member states are also working to assist their citizens in leaving the region, prioritizing those with the greatest necessitate, such as individuals with health problems. Travelers are encouraged to register their trips on the “Latvija.gov.lv” portal or the “Travel Safely” app to facilitate assistance in emergency situations.