UAE airports begin phased recovery as Emirates, Etihad prioritize stranded passenger departures 

UAE – Major air hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi has initiated a phased recovery by allowing a restricted number of flights to resume operations by prioritizing departing stranded passengers and facilitating specific repatriation efforts following regional disruptions. 

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced the commencement of exceptional flight operations at UAE airports, enabling affected travelers to finally depart in line with schedules to be communicated directly by airlines.  

This controlled reopening focuses on operational safety while preventing terminal overcrowding during periods when schedules remain highly volatile. 

Consequently, aviation authorities have issued a strict directive for travelers to stay away from airports unless they receive direct confirmation of new flight times from their airline.  

“Passengers whose flights have been impacted should not proceed to airports until they have been contacted and notified of their flight timings and details by their respective airlines,” the GCAA stated, emphasizing that adherence plays a central role in facilitating smooth procedures. 

“Travellers are advised not to proceed to DXB or DWC unless they have been contacted directly by their airline with a confirmed departure time, as schedules remain subject to change,” a spokesperson explained. 

Emirates will begin operating limited flights commencing March 2 evening, prioritizing customers with earlier bookings while noting all other flights remain suspended until further notice. 

Similarly, flydubai announced evening operations while emphasizing the dynamic nature of schedules. The carrier continues working closely with authorities and stakeholders to ensure efficient, gradual return to operations as the situation evolves. 

In Abu Dhabi, Etihad confirmed resumed flights from Zayed International Airport to specific destinations including London, Paris, Moscow and Amsterdam, with additional services scheduled for Jeddah and Kochi.  

The primary logistical challenges facing this reopening include managing volatile schedules, preventing terminal congestion, and maintaining clear communication with affected passengers 

By prioritizing stranded passengers, maintaining clear communication protocols and coordinating across carriers, the foundation is laid for full recovery when conditions permit.  

For hospitality and business sectors watching closely, each confirmed departure brings renewed hope that regional connectivity and economic momentum will gradually return. 

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