The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) announced that it has activated its emergency airport operations plan to ensure the continuity of air travel amid escalating tensions stemming from the Iran-Israel conflict, according to a report published in Gulf News. The move comes as several countries across the Middle East have closed portions of their airspace, leading to significant disruptions across global aviation routes.
The ICP confirmed that its comprehensive emergency business continuity plan was promptly activated, coordinating closely with operational entities and strategic partners to minimize travel disruptions while safeguarding passenger safety. The plan includes deploying additional qualified personnel to airport field teams, ensuring around-the-clock responsiveness to unfolding developments.
Authorities are also actively assisting stranded passengers, providing temporary accommodations, logistical support, and up-to-date information. A streamlined entry system has been put in place to align with the rapidly shifting operational requirements, with on-ground teams guiding passengers and coordinating rescheduling efforts directly with airlines.
The agency praised passenger cooperation during these challenging circumstances and reiterated its commitment to taking all necessary measures to maintain safety and security across UAE airports.
The crisis has underscored the growing vulnerability of global aviation to geopolitical conflicts. Analysis by Osprey Flight Solutions highlights that airspace closures across conflict zones force airlines to reroute via longer, less efficient paths across Central Asia and the Arabian Peninsula, resulting in higher fuel costs, extended flight durations, and widespread scheduling disruptions. According to Eurocontrol data, approximately 1,400 flights traverse Middle Eastern airspace daily, underscoring the global implications of any abrupt closures.
Aviation safety platform Safe Airspace reports that regulators have issued urgent advisories urging carriers to exercise “extreme caution” while operating in the region. In response, UAE airports including Zayed International in Abu Dhabi and Dubai Airports are urging travelers to monitor airline updates closely due to potential last-minute flight schedule changes.
With geopolitical risks escalating, industry analysts are warning of broader consequences for global transportation, trade, and economic stability should the situation deteriorate further. Airlines and regulators worldwide remain on high alert, monitoring the crisis as it continues to unfold.
Etihad, flydubai, Wizz Air, and Emirates Adjust Schedules
Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi reported continued disruptions, as delays and cancellations persist across UAE carriers due to regional airspace closures. Officials noted only minimal signs of stabilization.
Etihad Airways has suspended Abu Dhabi–Tel Aviv flights until June 22 and is rerouting several Middle East routes. Schedules to Amman, Beirut, and Moscow have also been adjusted, with the carrier warning of further possible delays. Passengers are urged to monitor updates via the airline’s website and app.
flydubai has suspended flights to Iran, Iraq, Israel, and Syria through June 30, barring connecting passengers from departing to these destinations. Wizz Air has extended its suspension of Tel Aviv and Amman services through September 15, 2025, and will avoid Israeli, Iraqi, Iranian, and Syrian airspace until further notice.
Emirates has suspended services to Jordan, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, and Tel Aviv, with several routes halted until at least June 30. Travelers are advised to check flight status before departure.
Travel Agents Advise Caution
Amid the evolving situation, UAE travel agencies are advising passengers not to cancel or alter bookings independently. Travel experts emphasize that airlines are responsible for rescheduling or rebooking passengers affected by operational disruptions at no extra cost.
“If a flight is canceled due to operational reasons, the airline is obligated to provide free rebooking or alternative arrangements,” said Badr Ahli, director of DW Travel. “However, if travelers act independently and modify bookings prematurely, they may incur additional charges.”
Industry experts are urging travelers to remain patient, keep their contact information updated, and monitor official airline communications regularly. Salah Mansour, executive director at Smart Tourism Solutions, noted that travelers who wait for airline decisions are better positioned to avoid financial losses. “Premature changes can lead to complications, particularly given the fast-changing nature of the crisis,” he added.
Many carriers are offering flexible options, including ticket retention for future travel, full refunds, or travel vouchers. However, with high volumes of refund requests, processing may take longer than usual. Airlines continue to recommend that passengers coordinate directly with authorized agents or their official websites for the most accurate updates.
As the crisis continues, industry stakeholders are navigating one of the most complex operational challenges facing global aviation in recent years, underscoring both the fragility and interconnectedness of international air travel networks.
