Thousands of holidaymakers have been left stranded after Emirates suspended all flights in and out of Dubai in the wake of US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran.
Emirates has suspended all flights in and out of Dubai(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Thousands of holidaymakers have been left stranded after aviation giant Emirates cancelled all flights in and out of Dubai on Saturday.
The escalating situation in Iran and the wider Middle East has resulted in multiple regional airspace closures over Dubai.
Emirates issued a “red alert” suspension lasting until at least 3pm local time on Sunday. The airline is “actively monitoring” the high-stakes situation as authorities work to manage the unfolding crisis.
Whilst safety remains the “highest priority,” the move has caused significant travel disruption for those caught up in the chaos.
In Glasgow, Emirates’ flights to Dubai yesterday and today were cancelled due to escalating tensions in the region.
Airlines operating across the Middle East cancelled or redirected a considerable number of flights on Saturday following US and Israeli airstrikes against Iran. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air were amongst the carriers to reduce their schedules to Middle Eastern destinations, citing safety concerns, reports the Mirror.
Taking to X, an Emirates spokesperson said: “Due to multiple regional airspace closures, Emirates has temporarily suspended all operations to and from Dubai, up until 1500hrs UAE time on Sunday, 1 March. If you are booked to travel in the next 72 hours, your options are:
“Rebook on an alternate flight. You can rebook on another flight to your intended destination up to 10 days from your original date of travel. If you booked your flight with a travel agent, please contact them. If you booked with us directly, contact us.
“Request for refund. You can request for a refund of your ticket by completing the refund form if you booked with us directly. If you booked your flights with a travel agent, please contact them. We urge all customers to check flight status before proceeding to the airport. Customers impacted by flight cancellations must contact their travel agency for rebooking.
“If booked directly with Emirates, please contact us. Customers are requested to ensure their contact details are correct by visiting http://emirat.es/managebooking to receive updates We are actively monitoring the situation and engaging with relevant authorities. We apologise to customers affected by disruptions for any inconvenience caused. The safety and security of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority.”
The update follows confirmation from Iran’s state broadcaster that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in the early hours of Sunday morning local time in US and Israeli airstrikes.