Middle East Flight Chaos Isn’t Over: Dubai Routes Return as Air Canada, KLM and Other Airlines Extend Suspensions
Dubai & Middle East Travel Update | August 2026
Air travel across the Middle East is entering another uncertain phase as regional airlines gradually restore selected routes while several major international carriers continue to suspend or postpone services.
The latest update from Condé Nast Traveller Middle East, published August 10, 2026, shows a complicated aviation picture. Some airlines are rebuilding their networks and adding destinations, while others continue to keep major routes to Dubai, Riyadh, Tel Aviv, Doha and other Middle Eastern destinations suspended. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The situation is changing as airlines monitor regional security conditions, airspace restrictions and operational requirements.
For travelers in the United States and Canada, the developments are particularly important because Dubai, Doha and other Gulf hubs are major connecting points for flights between North America, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
A traveler may therefore be affected even when their final destination is not in the Middle East.
For example, a passenger flying from New York or Toronto to India, Southeast Asia or Australia may normally connect through a Gulf airport. Changes to flight schedules, airspace restrictions and airline capacity can therefore affect long-haul itineraries far beyond the region itself.
At the same time, travelers should not assume that every flight to or from the Middle East has been canceled.
Some regional carriers are operating substantial portions of their networks, and several routes have already resumed.
The result is a mixed aviation environment in which individual flight status matters more than broad statements about whether “Middle East flights” are operating.
For customers who need help with booking, canceling, rebooking, rescheduling or upgrading a flight ticket, assistance is available at:
1-877-730-2630
Customers can also call this toll-free number to check flight status and receive assistance with their itinerary.
Why Middle East flights remain disrupted
According to Condé Nast Traveller Middle East, flight disruptions are expected to continue as the United States and Iran remain involved in mediator-led negotiations concerning the Strait of Hormuz. The report says the conflict has entered its sixth month and that the situation remains uncertain. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The aviation consequences extend beyond individual airports.
Several countries in the region have experienced security incidents, including missile and drone attacks, while airlines and aviation authorities continue to assess the risks associated with operating through affected airspace.
The report notes that Qatar, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain, along with Jordan, have faced attacks since an earlier ceasefire ended. Flights involving Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia continue to experience some cancellations. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
This uncertainty has encouraged international airlines to take a cautious approach.
Some carriers have resumed operations on selected routes.
Others have extended their suspension dates.
Some are operating reduced schedules rather than completely stopping service.
For passengers, that means travel plans can change quickly.
EASA extends its Gulf airspace warning
One of the most important factors affecting international airlines is an aviation safety advisory from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
Condé Nast Traveller Middle East reports that EASA has extended its conflict-zone advisory for the Gulf and is urging airlines to avoid airspace over the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar through August 31. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The advisory applies to EU airlines operating under European aviation rules as well as certain non-European airlines authorized by EASA.
According to the report, the warning is based on the potential risk created by missiles, drones, combat aircraft and air-defense systems.
For airlines, such an advisory can have major operational consequences.
Even when airports remain open, carriers may decide that particular routes cannot be operated normally.
They may instead:
- reroute aircraft;
- increase flight times;
- reduce frequencies;
- cancel selected services;
- add technical fuel stops;
- postpone the return of suspended routes; or
- use alternative airports.
These changes can affect passengers long after an initial disruption occurs.
UAE announces full resumption of air traffic
The situation at UAE airports is not one of complete closure.
The United Arab Emirates has announced the full resumption of air traffic, following an assessment of operational and security conditions. The country’s General Civil Aviation Authority said real-time monitoring would continue to support aviation safety. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
This is an important distinction for travelers.
An airport can be open while individual airlines continue to operate reduced schedules.
The reopening of national airspace does not necessarily mean every airline will immediately return to its previous network.
Airlines have to consider their own operational requirements, aircraft positioning, crew availability, insurance and security assessments.
That is why travelers may see one airline operating a particular route while another continues to suspend it.
Emirates rebuilds most of its global network
Dubai-based Emirates has made significant progress in restoring its international network.
According to Condé Nast Traveller Middle East, Emirates is now flying to 140 destinations across 72 countries, representing approximately 97 percent of its previous global network. The airline is operating more than 1,300 flights per week, equivalent to roughly 75 percent of its pre-war capacity. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Despite that recovery, some routes remain affected.
Flights to Kuwait and Bahrain continue to be canceled during the latest reporting period.
Emirates is advising passengers to check their flight status even after checking in.
That advice is particularly relevant during periods when schedules can change at short notice.
For passengers traveling through Dubai, the recovery of Emirates’ network is positive news.
However, passengers should not interpret the large percentage of restored destinations as a guarantee that their particular service will operate.
The individual flight remains the key factor.
Emirates also introduces travel flexibility
The airline has introduced measures intended to provide additional flexibility to passengers affected by disruption.
According to the report, customers booked to travel after April 2 can receive one complimentary date change across cabins. Emirates has also introduced comprehensive travel insurance for international passengers, including coverage related to conflict expenses, a free 30-day trip extension, airline-managed hotel stays and disruption support. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
For travelers who are uncertain about their plans, such flexibility can be significant.
However, passengers should confirm the exact terms applicable to their booking before making changes.
Etihad continues operating a broad network
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways is also operating a substantial schedule.
The airline is serving more than 90 destinations, including seasonal summer routes, according to Condé Nast Traveller Middle East. Additional destinations are expected to be added as conditions permit. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
However, Etihad’s services to Kuwait and Bahrain remain affected for operational reasons.
The airline is advising passengers to make sure their contact information is up to date.
That is particularly important during periods of schedule uncertainty because airlines may need to send passengers revised departure times or itinerary information.
Passengers with eligible Etihad bookings can also benefit from a one-time booking change without a rebooking fee under the conditions described in the report.
Qatar Airways resumes more regional services
Qatar Airways is another major carrier rebuilding its network.
The airline is operating multiple daily flights to Dubai and has resumed services to Bahrain, Kuwait and Erbil, according to the latest Condé Nast Traveller Middle East update. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Its expanding network includes major international destinations such as:
- Cairo;
- Casablanca;
- Miami;
- New York;
- Toronto;
- Frankfurt;
- Madrid;
- London;
- Bangkok;
- Beijing; and
- Mumbai.
Qatar Airways says it now covers more than 160 destinations, representing about 85 percent of its pre-war network. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
For North American passengers, the inclusion of New York, Toronto and Miami is particularly significant.
Doha is an important connecting hub for travelers between North America and destinations across Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
Passengers with confirmed travel dates can receive a complimentary date change through October 31, 2026, according to the report. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Flydubai operates with a reduced schedule
Flydubai is also operating across its network, but with a reduced schedule.
Some services to regional destinations, including Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, remain affected at short notice. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The airline is also warning passengers that flight durations and transit times through Dubai may be longer because aircraft are being rerouted.
That is an important consideration for connecting travelers.
A passenger may have a confirmed reservation and an operating flight but still face a longer journey because the aircraft cannot use its normal route.
Longer flight times can also affect connecting itineraries.
Travelers with short connections should pay particular attention to updated departure and arrival times.
Gulf Air restores much of its network
Bahrain-based Gulf Air has restored its global network to approximately 75 percent of its pre-war capacity, with additional routes introduced for the summer period.
The airline is currently flying to more than 50 destinations worldwide, according to the report. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The restoration represents another example of regional carriers gradually rebuilding their networks.
However, the recovery remains uneven.
Airlines are still balancing commercial demand with safety and operational considerations.
Air Arabia continues selected international services
Air Arabia is operating scheduled flights from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah to several international destinations.
Its current network includes destinations such as:
- Vienna;
- Athens;
- Cairo;
- Kathmandu;
- Muscat;
- Islamabad;
- Jeddah; and
- Bangkok.
However, services involving Kuwait, Bahrain and Doha have been affected in recent weeks and remain subject to disruption. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Passengers whose previous flights were canceled may be able to rebook if they have not already used their available modification or refund option.
Air India restores its Gulf network
Indian carriers have also made significant progress.
Air India and Air India Express have restored their full network across the Gulf Cooperation Council, according to the latest report.
Air India Express has returned to all Gulf destinations it served before the conflict began, including Kuwait and Salalah in Oman. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The restoration brings the airlines’ West Asia network back to approximately 780 weekly flights between India and the region.
However, Air India continues to warn passengers that travel to and from the Middle East may be affected by regional airspace closures.
The airline advises travelers to check the latest updates before flying.
IndiGo operates selected Middle East flights
Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo is operating selected flights to and from the Middle East.
The airline says flight movements are being closely monitored and that schedules may be adjusted according to regulatory guidance. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
This is another example of why travelers need to check specific flights rather than assuming that an entire airline network is either open or closed.
A carrier may operate one route while adjusting another.
Oman Air restores several routes
Oman Air has resumed flights to and from Amman, Dubai, Bahrain and Doha.
However, the airline continues to report technical issues and airspace restrictions affecting some routes, meaning passengers could still experience delays or cancellations. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Travelers using Muscat as a connecting point should therefore continue checking their flight status.
Turkish Airlines resumes key Middle East routes
Turkish Airlines has resumed flights to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Beirut and Amman.
Its flights to Iran remain suspended.
The airline says it is monitoring the regional airspace situation in real time and warns that additional cancellations may occur. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
For travelers from North America, Istanbul can be an important connecting hub.
Passengers traveling from cities such as New York, Chicago, Toronto or other North American gateways may use Istanbul to connect onward to the Middle East, Asia or Europe.
The resumption of Turkish Airlines’ selected services therefore provides another potential option for international travelers, although individual flight schedules remain subject to change.
International airlines remain much more cautious
While regional airlines are rebuilding their networks, several international carriers continue to suspend Middle East services.
The latest list includes major airlines from Europe, Asia and North America.
This difference between regional and international carriers is one of the defining features of the current disruption.
Regional airlines with hubs in or near the affected areas may be able to restore selected services more quickly.
International carriers may take a more cautious approach depending on their own safety assessments and route requirements.
Air Canada extends Dubai and Tel Aviv suspensions
For North American travelers, one of the most significant developments involves Air Canada.
The airline has extended its suspension of flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv until mid-January 2027, according to Condé Nast Traveller Middle East. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
That is a major extension for passengers who were expecting those routes to return sooner.
Canadian travelers with Air Canada itineraries involving those destinations should therefore review their reservations carefully.
The change can also affect travelers connecting through Canadian airports before continuing to the Middle East.
Passengers should not assume that a previous booking will remain unchanged simply because the ticket was issued months ago.
Air France extends several suspensions
Air France has also extended some of its Middle East cancellations.
The airline’s flights to Riyadh are suspended until August 14, while its Dubai and Beirut services are not scheduled to resume until August 18. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Air France has said that the resumption of operations will depend on an assessment of the local security situation, which remains rapidly evolving.
For U.S. and Canadian travelers using Paris as a connection point, this can have consequences beyond the Middle East.
A North American flight to Paris may continue normally while the onward Middle East segment is suspended.
Passengers should therefore check every segment of their itinerary.
British Airways plans a reduced return
British Airways continues to suspend services to a number of Middle Eastern destinations.
The airline has suspended flights to destinations including Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv.
When selected services resume, they will operate at reduced frequencies.
The airline plans to return to Dubai with one flight per day each way, down from three previously, according to the report. Tel Aviv service will also be reduced to one flight each way.
British Airways is also permanently dropping its London-Jeddah route. Its Riyadh service, previously operated twice daily, is expected to return with one daily flight. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Passengers with eligible British Airways bookings may request a refund or date change under the conditions described by the airline.
KLM keeps Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam suspended
Dutch carrier KLM has canceled flights to and from Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam through October 25, according to the latest report. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
KLM says it is not currently flying through the airspace of Iran, Iraq or Israel, as well as several countries in the Gulf region.
For passengers traveling from North America through Amsterdam, these restrictions can affect onward Middle East connections.
Lufthansa continues a broad suspension
German carrier Lufthansa has suspended flights to a number of Middle Eastern destinations, including:
- Abu Dhabi;
- Amman;
- Beirut;
- Dammam;
- Riyadh;
- Erbil;
- Muscat; and
- Tehran.
Those services are suspended until October 24, while the airline’s Dubai route is paused until at least September 13. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The Lufthansa Group’s extensive European network means that these changes can affect travelers connecting through Germany from North America.
Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines extend Dubai suspensions
Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific has canceled flights to and from Dubai until October 25 and Riyadh until October 26.
Eligible passengers may be able to rebook, reroute or request a refund under the airline’s ticket-waiver policy. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Singapore Airlines has also extended its Dubai suspension until October 24.
These changes matter to travelers using Asia as a connection point.
A passenger from North America traveling onward to Southeast Asia, Australia or other destinations may have traditionally used Dubai as part of a broader itinerary.
The suspension can therefore require passengers to consider different connecting hubs.
Other airlines continue to restrict Middle East services
The current international suspension list is extensive.
Air Astana has suspended flights to the UAE until August 31.
AirBaltic has canceled Dubai routes until October 24.
Finnair has suspended its Helsinki-Dubai route until October 24 and its Doha service through the winter season.
ITA Airways has suspended Dubai flights until October 24 and Riyadh service until September 15.
Korean Air has suspended its Incheon-Dubai route until further notice.
Japan Airlines has canceled Tokyo-Doha flights until sufficient safety measures are confirmed.
Norwegian has no new Dubai flights scheduled until further notice.
Pegasus continues to suspend services to multiple Middle Eastern destinations.
Philippine Airlines has suspended Manila-Dubai flights until October 2 while resuming Doha services.
Virgin Atlantic has ended its London-Dubai service for the remainder of the winter.
Wizz Air has suspended several services from mainland Europe to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman until mid-September. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The variety of suspension dates demonstrates how complicated the current aviation situation remains.
Kuwait remains particularly unpredictable
Kuwait continues to face intermittent airspace closures.
Kuwait Airways has canceled flights at short notice and adjusted schedules because of missile and drone attacks.
Some services are being diverted through Dammam, which can affect passengers with connecting flights. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Jazeera Airways has also warned passengers that intermittent closures of Kuwait International Airport and its airspace can disrupt services.
Some flights are being diverted to King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
Passengers traveling through Kuwait should therefore pay close attention to notifications from their airline.
Saudi Arabia’s airspace is open but affected
Saudi Arabia’s airspace remains open, but some services continue to be affected by the regional situation.
Authorities at airports in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam are advising passengers traveling to destinations affected by ongoing events to check directly with their airlines before leaving for the airport. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
This again highlights the difference between an airport being operational and every individual flight operating normally.
What this means for travelers from the United States and Canada
For North American travelers, the current situation can be confusing because the same itinerary can involve multiple airlines and airports.
A traveler might fly:
United States → Doha → Asia
or
Canada → Amsterdam → Dubai
or
United States → Istanbul → Middle East
If one segment is suspended, the passenger’s entire itinerary may need to be changed.
The fact that another airline is operating the same route does not automatically mean a passenger can transfer to that carrier.
Rebooking depends on the airline, ticket conditions and available agreements.
Passengers should therefore check their booking before making independent arrangements.
Don’t assume an open airport means normal operations
One of the most important lessons from the latest developments is that airport reopening does not automatically mean a return to normal airline schedules.
The UAE has announced the full resumption of air traffic.
Qatar has reopened its airspace.
Bahrain’s airspace is open.
Saudi Arabia’s airspace is open but affected.
Yet numerous international airlines continue to operate reduced schedules or keep individual routes suspended. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Airlines need time to reposition aircraft, crews and passengers.
They also need to determine whether particular routes can be operated safely and efficiently.
As a result, restoration can happen gradually.
Longer flight times are another possibility
Passengers whose flights continue operating may still experience longer journeys.
Rerouting around restricted airspace can add distance to a flight.
Flydubai has warned that flight durations and transit times in Dubai may be longer because of rerouted flight paths. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Longer routes can also affect fuel requirements and may create the need for technical stops.
Condé Nast Traveller Middle East notes that some low-cost carriers may need unscheduled fuel stops in southern Europe because of the restricted airspace environment. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
For travelers, this means an operating flight is not necessarily a flight operating exactly as it did before the disruption.
Passengers should check flight status even after checking in
Emirates has specifically advised passengers to check their flight status even after checking in.
That is a useful recommendation for anyone traveling during an unstable period.
A flight can be changed after a passenger has checked in.
Schedules can be revised.
Departure times can move.
Routes can be canceled or rerouted.
Passengers should therefore continue monitoring their booking until they reach their destination.
What should you do if your flight is suspended?
If your airline announces that your flight has been suspended, first review the options provided by the carrier.
Depending on the airline and ticket conditions, passengers may receive options such as:
- a free date change;
- rebooking on another flight;
- rerouting;
- a refund; or
- alternative transportation arrangements.
Policies differ significantly between airlines.
Do not assume that one carrier’s policy applies to another airline.
If you need help reviewing your travel arrangements, customers can call:
1-877-730-2630
Assistance is available for booking, canceling, rebooking, rescheduling and upgrading flight tickets.
Customers can also call the same number to check flight status.
What if your flight is still operating?
If your flight is currently confirmed and operating, travelers should still monitor the booking.
Check the airline’s website or app and review any notifications.
If you have a connection, check the next flight as well.
A delay on one segment can affect the following flight.
Travelers should also allow additional time at the airport.
Emirates has advised passengers traveling during the busy summer period to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure, clear security with 90 minutes remaining and be at the gate one hour before departure. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Summer travel is adding pressure
The latest disruptions are occurring during a busy summer travel period.
Condé Nast Traveller Middle East notes that many families are leaving the region during the summer to escape high temperatures.
That means demand for remaining flights can be unusually high.
When several airlines suspend services, passengers shift toward the carriers that continue operating.
That can make available flights busier than normal.
Travelers who need to change a booking may therefore find that replacement seats are limited.
Don’t rely on a general statement about “Middle East flights”
The aviation situation varies significantly by airline and route.
For example:
- Emirates is operating most of its global network but still has some regional cancellations.
- Qatar Airways has resumed several routes and operates more than 160 destinations.
- Air India has restored its Gulf network.
- Turkish Airlines has resumed several Middle East destinations.
- Air Canada has extended Dubai and Tel Aviv suspensions into January 2027.
- KLM continues to suspend Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam.
- Lufthansa has suspended multiple Middle East routes.
- Singapore Airlines has extended its Dubai suspension.
These differences mean travelers need flight-specific information, not just general regional news. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
A changing situation requires flexibility
The current Middle East aviation environment remains fluid.
Some routes have reopened.
Others have been suspended again.
Airlines are adjusting schedules based on security conditions and airspace availability.
Passengers should therefore be prepared for changes even when they have already purchased a ticket.
Travel insurance and flexible airline policies may provide additional protection, but travelers should carefully read the conditions of their specific policy.
Key advice for North American travelers
If you’re traveling from the U.S. or Canada through Dubai or another Middle Eastern hub, consider these steps:
Check the exact flight.
Do not rely solely on general reports about airport operations.
Check every connection.
A long-haul flight may operate while your connecting flight is canceled.
Monitor your booking after check-in.
Schedules can change at short notice.
Allow extra time.
Airport procedures and flight schedules may take longer during disruption.
Expect possible rerouting.
Flights that operate may take longer routes.
Review airline flexibility.
Some carriers are offering free date changes or refund options for eligible passengers.
Keep your contact information current.
Airlines may send important schedule updates by email or text.
Have a backup plan.
If your trip is time-sensitive, consider alternative dates or routing options.
Get assistance if needed.
Call 1-877-730-2630 for help with booking, cancellation, rebooking, rescheduling or ticket upgrades.
Check flight status.
Call 1-877-730-2630 for flight-status assistance.
Bottom line: Middle East flights are returning-but normal service has not fully returned
The latest Condé Nast Traveller Middle East update paints a mixed picture for Middle East aviation.
Regional carriers are gradually restoring services.
Emirates is operating around 97 percent of its previous global destination network, although at roughly 75 percent of its previous capacity.
Etihad is serving more than 90 destinations.
Qatar Airways has restored more than 160 destinations, while Air India has restored its full Gulf network.
Turkish Airlines, Oman Air and other regional carriers have also resumed selected services. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
At the same time, major international airlines continue to suspend or postpone routes.
Air Canada has extended Dubai and Tel Aviv suspensions until mid-January 2027.
KLM has canceled Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam services through October 25.
Lufthansa continues a broad Middle East suspension.
Singapore Airlines has extended its Dubai suspension until October 24.
British Airways plans a reduced return to several destinations, while other carriers remain suspended on individual routes. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The UAE has announced the full resumption of air traffic, but EASA’s Gulf conflict-zone advisory remains in effect through August 31, recommending that airlines avoid airspace over the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
For North American travelers, the message is clear: Middle East aviation is recovering, but the recovery is uneven and flight schedules remain subject to change.
If your trip involves Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Kuwait, Bahrain, Tel Aviv or another regional destination, check your specific flight before traveling.
If you need assistance with booking, canceling, rebooking, rescheduling or upgrading a flight ticket, call:
1-877-730-2630
Customers can also use the same toll-free number to check flight status.
Have your reservation or ticket details available when calling for assistance.
Source Credit
Primary news source: Condé Nast Traveller Middle East, Hana Al-Khodairi and Sophia Dyer, “Dubai and Middle East flight disruption: regional airlines resume some routes while international airlines extend suspensions,” published August 10, 2026. The article provides the airline-by-airline information and regional airspace updates summarized in this article. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
The source reports that schedules and route networks are being regularly updated and that passengers should remain prepared for possible disruption. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
Editorial note: Airline schedules, route suspensions, airspace restrictions and rebooking policies can change rapidly. The information in this article reflects the reported situation at the time of publication. Travelers should verify their individual itinerary and flight status before traveling.
Customer-service notice: The telephone number 1-877-730-2630 is included based on the customer-service information supplied for this article. It is not represented as an official telephone number for Condé Nast Traveller Middle East, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, Air Canada, any other airline, airport or government aviation authority.
