Executive Summary: Dubai airports DXB and DWC reopened limited flights on the evening of March 2, 2026, after a 48-hour total shutdown caused by Iranian missile strikes. Operations remain heavily restricted with unpredictable schedules, and passengers must confirm flight status directly with airlines before heading to airports.
After more than 48 hours of complete shutdown, Dubai Airports confirmed that limited flight operations resumed on the evening of Monday, March 2, 2026. Both Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are now handling a small number of flights, marking the first step toward restoring normal aviation services.
But here’s the thing—this isn’t business as usual. Not by a long shot.
What Caused the Dubai Airport Closure?
Iranian missile strikes on February 28-29, 2026, damaged portions of Dubai’s aviation infrastructure, including strikes near the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel. The General Civil Aviation Authority implemented a temporary partial closure of UAE airspace as a precautionary safety measure.
Emirates announced that all flights to and from Dubai by the airline would be suspended until 3pm UAE time on Sunday, March 1. Flydubai followed with similar restrictions. The unprecedented total shutdown affected hundreds of thousands of passengers and countless connecting flights through what’s typically the world’s busiest international airport.
In 2025, DXB welcomed 95.2 million guests, representing the highest-ever annual traffic for the airport and the most international passengers handled in a year by any airport in history, according to Dubai Airports. The facility connects 291 destinations via 108 international carriers.
Current Flight Operations Status
Dubai Airports issued a statement confirming that limited resumption began on the evening of March 2. However, officials are being crystal clear: this is a phased restart, not a return to normal operations.
The number of flights operating remains severely restricted. Most schedules are subject to rapid changes, cancellations, and delays without advance notice. Airlines are prioritizing specific routes based on operational capacity and passenger demand.
Which Airlines Are Flying?
Emirates and flydubai have begun operating select routes from both airports. However, the carriers are contacting passengers directly about flight confirmations rather than publishing comprehensive schedules.
Airlines with confirmed flight status are reaching out via email, SMS, and mobile app notifications. Passengers who haven’t received direct confirmation from their airline should assume their flight is not operating.
What Travelers Need to Know Right Now
Dubai Airports has issued an explicit warning: passengers should not proceed to DXB or DWC unless they’ve received direct confirmation from their airline. Showing up at the airport without confirmation will likely result in being turned away.
Here’s what’s actually happening on the ground. Airlines are operating on significantly reduced capacity. Ground handling services are ramping up gradually. Immigration and customs are processing passengers more slowly than usual due to staffing constraints.
Security protocols have been enhanced, adding extra time to check-in procedures. Connecting passengers face particular challenges, as many routes that typically connect through Dubai aren’t operating yet.
Rebooking and Refund Options
Emirates announced that passengers booked to travel within the next 72 hours can rebook on alternate flights or request refunds. Similar policies are in place for flydubai customers.
However, processing times for rebooking requests are running 48-72 hours behind normal due to the volume of affected passengers. Airlines are prioritizing passengers with immediate travel needs.
| Airport Status | DXB (Dubai International) | DWC (Al Maktoum International) |
|---|---|---|
| Current Operations | Limited flights resumed Mar 2 evening | Limited flights resumed Mar 2 evening |
| Flight Volume | Severely restricted (exact number undisclosed) | Severely restricted (exact number undisclosed) |
| Schedule Reliability | Unstable, subject to rapid changes | Unstable, subject to rapid changes |
| Passenger Access | Only with confirmed flight booking | Only with confirmed flight booking |
| Connecting Flights | Most connections not operating | Most connections not operating |
Before You Head to the Airport
Real talk: even if operations have technically resumed, the situation remains fluid. Here’s what passengers should do before attempting to travel through Dubai airports.
First, check your flight status directly through your airline’s official app or website—not third-party booking platforms. Emirates customers should use the Emirates app or contact their call center. Flydubai passengers should similarly verify through official channels.
Second, confirm you’ve received explicit communication from your airline about your specific flight. Generic emails about policy changes don’t count as flight confirmation.
Third, allow significantly more time than usual for all airport processes. What typically takes 90 minutes might require three to four hours during this phased restart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dubai Airport fully open now?
No. Dubai airports DXB and DWC have resumed limited operations as of March 2 evening, but the vast majority of normal flight schedules are not operating. Only a small number of flights are currently handling passengers.
Can I travel through Dubai airport today?
Only if your airline has directly confirmed your flight is operating. Do not go to the airport without explicit confirmation from your carrier, as Dubai Airports has warned passengers will be turned away without confirmed bookings.
Which airlines are flying from Dubai right now?
Emirates and flydubai have resumed select routes from both DXB and DWC. However, the specific flights operating change frequently. Contact your airline directly for current status rather than relying on published schedules.
What caused the Dubai airport closure?
Iranian missile strikes on February 28-29, 2026, damaged aviation infrastructure in Dubai, prompting the General Civil Aviation Authority to temporarily close UAE airspace for safety. The closure lasted approximately 48 hours before limited operations resumed.
How long will flight disruptions continue?
Dubai Airports hasn’t provided a specific timeline for returning to normal operations. The phased restart means schedules will remain unstable for the immediate future, with full restoration depending on infrastructure repairs and airspace clearances.
Can I get a refund if my Dubai flight was canceled?
Yes. Emirates and flydubai are offering rebooking or refunds for passengers with tickets in the next 72 hours. However, processing times are currently 48-72 hours behind normal due to high volume.
Are connecting flights through Dubai operating?
Most connecting flights are not currently operating. The limited resumption focuses on specific point-to-point routes rather than Dubai’s typical role as a major connecting hub. Verify your specific connection with your airline.
Looking Ahead
The reopening of Dubai airports marks progress, but travelers should maintain realistic expectations. This isn’t a flip-the-switch return to normal—it’s the beginning of a gradual recovery process.
Aviation authorities are prioritizing safety over speed. Infrastructure assessments continue. Airspace restrictions may be reimposed if security situations change. The aviation industry learned from the COVID-19 pandemic that rushed reopenings often backfire.
For now, patience and flexibility remain essential. Check your flight status obsessively. Have backup plans. And whatever you do—don’t show up at the airport hoping for the best.
Stay updated through official channels from Dubai Airports, your airline, and the General Civil Aviation Authority for the latest operational information as the situation continues to evolve.