Massive Flight Cancellations Disrupt Travel from UAE to Portugal: What You Need to Know!

Published on December 10, 2025

In a significant disruption to air travel, Emirates has announced the cancellation of multiple flights from Dubai International Airport to Lisbon, one of Europe’s most popular destinations. These cancellations are due to a nationwide strike in Portugal, set to take place on Thursday, December 11. This industrial action, called by the country’s two major trade unions, CGTP and UGT, has severely affected international air travel between Portugal and the United Arab Emirates.

Impact of the Cancellations on Emirates Passengers

The strike, which is expected to involve a wide range of public sector workers including teachers, health workers, and transport employees, has led to the suspension of several international flights. Specifically, Emirates flights EK191 and EK193, operating from Dubai International Airport to Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon, will not be departing on December 11. In addition, the return flights, EK192 and EK194, from Lisbon to Dubai, are also affected.

Emirates passengers who were scheduled to connect through Dubai on these flights are advised that they will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin. Those who have booked directly with Emirates and are impacted by these cancellations are encouraged to reach out to the airline to explore alternative travel options.

Apologies and Alternative Arrangements

The airline has issued an apology for the disruption and any inconvenience caused to its passengers. As Dubai International Airport is experiencing its busiest month ever, with over 10 million passengers expected in December, such cancellations highlight the challenges airlines face during peak travel periods. Passengers are urged to keep in touch with Emirates for updates and to make alternative arrangements as needed.

The Broader Impact of the Strike in Portugal

This strike action in Portugal has not only impacted Emirates flights but has also affected operations for other airlines, notably Etihad Airways. On December 11, Etihad Airways will cancel its flight EY099 from Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport to Lisbon Portela International Airport, along with the return flight EY100. The industrial action, which is a protest against proposed labor law reforms in Portugal, has seen widespread participation from unions representing public sector workers, including those from the SNPVAC, the cabin crew union. As a result, international air travel between the UAE and Portugal has been severely disrupted.

The Significance of the Strike in Portugal

The general strike called by the CGTP and UGT unions reflects significant labor unrest in Portugal. It has been organized to protest the government’s plans to reform labor laws, which have been met with strong opposition. With both Emirates and Etihad Airways suspending services to Lisbon, the strike’s impact on international travel is being felt on a large scale.

Public sector workers, including teachers, healthcare professionals, and transport employees, have been encouraged to join the strike in protest. The widespread participation from these key sectors has contributed to the cancellation of numerous international flights. For travelers planning to fly between the UAE and Portugal on December 11, alternative travel plans will need to be made, with both Emirates and Etihad Airways offering options for rescheduling or rebooking affected passengers.

How Passengers Are Affected by the Strike and Cancellations

For passengers who had planned to fly to Lisbon on Emirates or Etihad Airways, the sudden cancellations have caused significant inconvenience. Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has advised its customers to contact the airline directly for assistance with finding new flight arrangements. However, with over 10 million people expected to travel through Dubai International Airport during December, finding alternative options could prove challenging.

Passengers who were connecting to other international flights via Dubai International Airport are also likely to face disruptions, as these cancellations have a cascading effect on the airport’s operations. Travelers should stay in close contact with their airlines for the most up-to-date information regarding potential delays or rerouting.

Why This is Happening During Peak Travel Periods

The timing of the industrial action in Portugal comes during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. December is typically a peak month for Dubai International Airport, which handles a vast number of international flights. The added strain of flight cancellations due to the Portugal strike makes it even more difficult for passengers to navigate their travel plans.

This coincides with a period when many people are traveling for the holiday season, further compounding the inconvenience. As a result, Emirates and Etihad Airways have been working hard to accommodate affected passengers, despite the challenges posed by the widespread nature of the cancellations.

What This Means for International Air Travel Between the UAE and Portugal

The disruption caused by the Portugal strike serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of international travel to external factors, such as labor disputes and national strikes. With airlines like Emirates and Etihad Airways forced to cancel flights, the broader impact on the aviation industry is evident. These cancellations affect thousands of travelers who are now faced with the uncertainty of how and when they will reach their destinations.

This is also an important reminder for travelers to stay informed about any potential disruptions, especially when traveling during peak periods or to destinations affected by social or political unrest. For those planning to travel from the UAE to Portugal, keeping in close contact with the airline and checking for updates on the status of flights will be crucial.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Challenge of International Travel Disruptions

In conclusion, the flight cancellations by Emirates and Etihad Airways due to the general strike in Portugal represent just one example of how external factors can disrupt international air travel. For passengers affected by these cancellations, the airlines are working to find alternative arrangements, but with Dubai International Airport experiencing its busiest period ever, the challenges of rebooking are likely to persist.

For those planning to travel on December 11 between the UAE and Portugal, staying informed and prepared for possible changes is essential. Passengers are advised to contact their airline for further guidance and to explore other travel options if necessary.