Lisbon Flight Chaos as Portugal’s Nationwide Strike Grounds Emirates and Etihad Airways: Impact on Travel from Dubai and Abu Dhabi: What Travelers Need to Know

Published on December 10, 2025

Emirates has announced a wave of flight cancellations that will affect travel between Dubai and Lisbon on December 11, 2025. The cancellations come amid a nationwide strike in Portugal that has grounded much of the country’s international air traffic. This disruption is expected to create significant challenges for travelers during one of the busiest periods at Dubai International Airport (DXB), where more than 10 million passengers are expected to fly in December.

The Emirates flights EK191 and EK193, which operate between Dubai and Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport, will not be flying on the scheduled date due to the strike. Additionally, the return flights, EK192 and EK194, have also been canceled, leaving travelers scrambling for alternatives. Etihad Airways has similarly been impacted, with flights from Abu Dhabi to Lisbon also canceled, including EY099 and EY100.

What’s Behind the Cancellations?

Portugal’s nationwide strike disrupts public services and travel plans

The cancellations have been caused by a general strike called by two of Portugal’s largest labor unions, CGTP and UGT, protesting against planned labor law reforms. The strike has resulted in major disruptions to public sector services, including education, healthcare, transport, and aviation. Cabin crew unions have joined the protest, which has significantly affected international flights.

The strike is particularly significant as it has caused a ripple effect on flights to Portugal’s major international airports, including Lisbon, which is a popular gateway for travelers from the Middle East, especially during the holiday season. The strike impacts all flights from the UAE to Lisbon, making it a crucial issue for travelers who had planned to visit Lisbon or connect through Dubai.

What Should Affected Travelers Do?

Guidelines for rebooking and alternative options

For those who had already booked their flights with Emirates or Etihad, it is advised to contact the airlines for assistance. Passengers whose flights were canceled due to the strike should explore alternative travel arrangements, such as:

• Rebooking on alternative flights: Emirates and Etihad may offer passengers the option to book seats on later flights once operations resume. It’s essential to act quickly to secure new bookings.
• Refunds: Travelers who are unable to rebook or choose not to travel can request refunds or other compensatory offers from the airlines.
• Flight rerouting: Passengers may also consider rerouting their journey through nearby airports or connecting flights to other cities before continuing their journey to Lisbon.

Travelers flying from Lisbon to Dubai are similarly affected by these cancellations. As Dubai International Airport experiences heavy traffic this December, it is advised that travelers stay updated on their flight status to avoid further inconvenience.

The Impact on Tourism: How Portugal’s Strike Affects Holiday Travel

An already busy holiday season disrupted by strikes and cancellations

Portugal’s general strike comes at a particularly busy time for the tourism industry, which thrives during the holiday season. As Lisbon is one of Europe’s most sought-after holiday destinations, the cancellations are bound to affect not only airline passengers but also tourism in Lisbon. Famous attractions like the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the iconic Tram 28 will likely see fewer visitors than anticipated, impacting both local businesses and the tourism economy.

Given the travel disruptions caused by the strike, tourists hoping to spend the Christmas holidays in Lisbon may have to alter their plans. However, travelers looking to visit Portugal in the near future should stay aware of potential strike action and consider booking with flexible travel options.

Travel Tips for December: Preparing for Possible Flight Disruptions

How to avoid being caught off guard by sudden cancellations

If you’re traveling in December, especially to or from Portugal, consider the following tips to minimize the impact of cancellations:

1. Book with flexibility: Opt for flights with flexible cancellation policies, or airlines that allow for easy rebooking and refunds in case of disruption.
2. Stay updated on airport news: Dubai International Airport and Emirates provide frequent updates via their official websites and social media channels. Keeping track of any last-minute changes to your flight will help you stay prepared.
3. Consider alternate destinations: If your destination is heavily impacted by the strike, consider flying into nearby cities and arranging ground transportation to Lisbon or other parts of Portugal.
4. Travel insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers disruptions such as strike-related cancellations. This will offer peace of mind during periods of uncertainty.

What’s Next for Travelers?

Looking beyond December’s disruptions

While the strike in Portugal is expected to affect flights on December 11, travelers should be aware that additional disruptions might occur if the strike continues or if more labor actions are announced. Emirates and Etihad Airways are taking steps to mitigate the effects on passengers, but travelers should remain vigilant, especially as the holiday season peaks.

The global travel landscape is becoming more prone to disruptions, especially during busy periods like December. By keeping informed and being proactive with rebooking or refunding options, passengers can still make the most of their travel plans without unnecessary delays.