Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Travel, Thousands Stranded

The conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran is causing widespread disruption to global air travel, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and sparking fears for the global economy. As of Tuesday, March 3, 2026, airspace closures across the Middle East remain in effect, with limited resumption of some flights.

Escalating Conflict and Airspace Closures

Following initial strikes by the US and Israel against Iran, retaliatory strikes from Iran and its allies have escalated the conflict. This has led to the closure of airspace in Israel, Syria, Qatar, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Bahrain, with partial closures in Jordan. The United Arab Emirates has also restricted flights over its airspace.

Major airlines have been significantly impacted, with Emirates cancelling almost 500 flights, Qatar Airways cancelling 423, Fly Dubai cancelling 345, and Etihad Airways cancelling 193. More than 115,000 Australians are currently in the region. Globally, over 17,100 flights have been delayed and more than 3,000 cancelled as of Tuesday morning AEDT.

Airline Responses and Rescheduling Policies

Airlines are responding to the crisis with varying policies regarding rescheduling and refunds. Here’s a breakdown of the major airlines:

• Etihad: Passengers with tickets issued on or before February 28, 2026, for travel up to March 7, 2026, can re-book on Etihad-operated flights up to March 18, 2026, free of charge.
• Emirates: Passengers can re-book on another flight to their intended destination for travel on or before March 20. Passengers who booked directly can contact the airline, although those who booked through a travel agent should contact their agent.
• Qatar: Complimentary date changes of up to 14 days from the original travel date are available for passengers with confirmed bookings between February 28 and March 10.
• Virgin: Free booking changes are offered on Virgin Australia’s Doha services up to and including March 6, 2026, for those who no longer wish to travel.

Flight Suspension Updates

• Etihad: All Etihad Airways’ commercial flights to and from Abu Dhabi remain suspended until 14:00 UAE time on Wednesday, March 4.
• Emirates: Emirates has temporarily suspended all operations to and from Dubai up until 3pm UAE time on March 3.
• Qatar: Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe reopening of Qatari airspace, with an update expected on March 3 by 5pm AEDT.
• Virgin: Flights to and from Doha from March 3 to March 5 have been cancelled, with no resumption time yet announced.

What to Do If Stranded in the Middle East

Australians currently in the Middle East are advised to stay updated with Smartraveller and their flight status. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has activated its 24/7 Crisis Centre to provide consular support. Passengers are strongly advised not to cancel their tickets, as doing so may forfeit refund or re-booking options.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles indicated that repatriation flights are unlikely while airspace remains closed, stating that commercial flights are the most expeditious solution once airspace reopens. The UAE will cover the costs of hotels and meals for over 20,000 passengers stranded in the country.

Refund and Insurance Policies

Refund eligibility depends on the airline and booking conditions. Generally, passengers are entitled to a full cash refund if the airline cancels the flight. Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia are offering refunds for affected travel dates. Etihad and Emirates also offer refund options.

Insurance coverage for missed flights is unlikely due to standard “exclusion-of-war” policies. However, passengers should still contact their insurer for advice.

Duration of Disruptions and Future Outlook

The duration of the disruptions remains uncertain. However, some special flights have resumed from the Middle East, with Emirates and Etihad Airways among the first to grab off from Abu Dhabi. US President Donald Trump has stated the conflict is expected to last “four weeks,” but acknowledged the operation could continue longer.

Passengers with flights booked through the Middle East are advised to contact their airline or travel agent within 48 hours of travel if they haven’t been contacted already. Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs advises against travel to countries in the region, including the UAE and Qatar.