Dubai Struggles with Severe Weather: Flight Disruptions Hit Travelers from the UAE to the World!

Published on December 19, 2025

Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the busiest airports globally, has issued a travel advisory amid ongoing weather disruptions that have been affecting flight operations. The adverse weather, which includes heavy rain, strong winds, and potential thunderstorms, has led to widespread flight delays and cancellations. Travelers have been urged to plan ahead, allowing extra time to reach the airport and confirming their flight status directly with airlines before departure.

The Impact of Weather on Airport Operations

The disruptive weather began affecting Dubai Airport on Friday, December 19, 2025, as forecasts predicted continued heavy rainfall and possible fog. The conditions have caused significant congestion at DXB, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, with both arriving and departing passengers experiencing delays. In addition to flight delays, water accumulation on the roads leading to the airport has created further challenges, affecting airport access.

Travelers have been advised to consider using the Dubai Metro to avoid road-related delays and ensure they arrive at the airport in time for their flights. Given the unpredictable nature of the weather, passengers are encouraged to remain flexible and check for real-time flight updates directly from their airlines.

Widespread Flight Cancellations and Delays

The weather conditions have caused major disruptions across multiple airlines operating at DXB, including Emirates, flydubai, flynas, Royal Jordanian, and other international carriers such as Turkish Airlines, Saudia, Kuwait Airways, and Qatar Airways. According to flight status updates from Dubai Airports, numerous flights have been either delayed or canceled. This has caused significant congestion at terminals, as flight schedules have been shifting rapidly throughout the day.

Emirates, the largest carrier operating at DXB, has reported several flight cancellations due to the ongoing weather challenges. Flights to and from destinations like Tehran, Dammam, Basra, Muscat, Kuwait, Bahrain, Seychelles, Malé, Colombo, Peshawar, Frankfurt, and Incheon were among the services affected. Additionally, some flights have been rescheduled with revised departure times as the situation evolves.

Recommendations for Travelers

In response to the ongoing disruptions, Emirates has urged passengers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport and to ensure their contact details are up-to-date to receive real-time notifications about their flights. The airline emphasized that safety is a top priority, and the cancellations and delays are being made in line with safety considerations.

Similarly, flydubai has advised passengers to plan ahead and allow extra time to reach the airport. As weather conditions are expected to remain volatile over the coming days, travelers are advised to anticipate continued disruptions.

Severe Weather Expected to Continue

The UAE has been experiencing heavy rainfall since Thursday afternoon, with more showers expected through the weekend. The National Centre of Meteorology has warned that strong winds could reach up to 50 kilometers per hour, and rough sea conditions have been reported in both the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea. As a result, authorities have urged residents to avoid non-essential travel and take extra care on the roads. Flooded underpasses and reduced visibility have been reported in some areas, making it critical for drivers to stay cautious.

With the possibility of further rainfall and wind gusts, the disruptions at Dubai Airport could continue well into the weekend. In response, many businesses have adjusted their schedules, and offices across the UAE have shifted to remote work to mitigate any weather-related risks.

Tips for Travelers During the Disruptions

Given that the weekend is among the busiest travel periods of the year, travelers flying from or through Dubai are being urged to take extra precautions. The following recommendations have been issued:

1. Check flight statuses regularly: With rapidly changing flight schedules, it is essential for passengers to monitor updates from their airlines.
2. Arrive earlier than usual: To account for potential delays in reaching the airport, travelers should aim to arrive well ahead of their flight times.
3. Plan for extra travel time: Due to road disruptions and possible congestion at the airport, extra time should be factored into the travel plans to avoid missing flights.

The Future of Dubai Airport’s Operations

Further updates on the ongoing disruptions are expected as weather conditions evolve. With safety remaining the primary concern, travelers are advised to stay informed and continue monitoring the situation as it develops. While Dubai’s aviation network has been severely impacted by the weather, steps are being taken to minimize further disruptions. Passengers are encouraged to prioritize safety during this challenging period and follow guidance from airlines and airport authorities.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Plan Ahead

As Dubai International Airport continues to experience disruptions due to adverse weather conditions, travelers are advised to stay informed, plan carefully, and be prepared for further delays and cancellations. With the situation expected to persist through the weekend, maintaining flexibility and regularly checking flight statuses will be crucial for a smooth journey. Whether using Dubai Metro for faster access or staying updated on weather developments, passengers are encouraged to make decisions that prioritize safety and minimize travel stress.