Is It Secure to Travel to Dubai? Here is the Newest Recommendation for Travelers

Flydubai: The Dubai carrier confirmed that various its flights had been affected on Saturday morning, stating it could proceed to regulate its flight schedule accordingly. “This is a developing situation which we are monitoring closely, while adjusting our flight schedule accordingly,” a spokesperson confirmed. “The safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority. We are in direct contact with passengers whose travel plans have been affected.”

Lufthansa: German provider Lufthansa is ⁠suspending ⁠all flights to ​and from Dubai over Saturday, 28 February and Sunday, 1 March. It has additionally confirmed all companies to and from Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Oman could be suspending till no less than 7 March.

Norwegian: Budget provider Norwegian has canceled all flights till Wednesday. “We have decided to suspend flights to and from Dubai until at least Wednesday, March 4 and we will then assess if it’s possible to resume flights,” a spokesperson for the airline instructed AFP.

Air India: Air India mentioned on Saturday it was suspending all flights to the Middle East, together with Dubai. “In view of the developing situation in parts of the Middle East, all Air India flights to all destinations in the Middle East have been suspended,” the airline mentioned in an announcement on X.

Qatar Airways: Qatar Airways has joined an growing variety of regional airways in suspending flights as a result of airspace closures. “Once usual operations resume, we anticipate delays to our flight schedule. We have also deployed additional ground staff at Hamad International Airport and other key airports to assist affected passengers,” it mentioned in an announcement. “The safety of our passengers and crew is always our highest priority, and we apologize for any inconvenience caused.”

Middle East Travel Advisories: What Travelers Need to Know as the US Launches Attack on Iran

The latest updates as a growing number of governments issue travel warnings for the Middle East.

What are foreign governments advising?

United Kingdom: The UK government has urged its citizens in the UAE to take precaution and “shelter in place”. In an replace recommendation issued on Saturday, 28 February, it mentioned: “Due to reported missile attacks, British nationals in UAE should immediately shelter in place. Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities.”

United States: The US authorities additionally urged its residents within the UAE and Abu Dhabi to “shelter in place”. Its newest recommendation as of Saturday, 28 February urged residents to “monitor media for breaking news and be prepared to adjust your plans.”

India: India’s Embassy within the UAE issued an replace to residents on Saturday, advising all Indian nationals to “avoid unnecessary travel, take due care, remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines and advisories.”

How does this have an effect on journey insurance coverage?

Insurance claims for lodge or airline ticket cancellations largely depend upon authorities “do not travel” advisories. War and battle exclusions are generally present in fundamental insurance coverage packages, that means that modifications to journey plans as a result of regional tensions are unlikely to set off reimbursement. Travelers looking for better flexibility ought to contemplate Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) protection. These insurance policies supply partial refunds—usually 50 to 75%—however should be bought inside days of the unique reserving.

Should you rethink your journey plans?

For now, Dubai’s airspace stays closed, which implies anybody with imminent plans to go to the emirate are prone to discover their plans affected. Travelers are suggested to remain knowledgeable, monitor airline updates intently and permit further time for connections the place attainable. When Dubai’s airspace reopens, it’s possible that any security issues on the bottom might be alleviated, and journey plans to Dubai ought to be capable of proceed as supposed. Travelers ought to proceed to watch the scenario intently.