Qatar Airways, Air Arabia, Ethiopian, Air France, United, and More Airlines Cause Travel Disruptions in UAE with Nine Flight Cancellations Affecting Routes to Doha, Damascus, Johannesburg, Paris, Newark, Dhaka, and More – New Update

Published on December 29, 2025

Recent operational challenges have led to a wave of flight cancellations UAE, affecting major airports in Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. Travelers flying internationally and regionally have faced sudden schedule changes, leaving many to adjust plans at the last minute. A total of 9 flights were canceled, affecting destinations including Doha, Damascus, Johannesburg, Paris, Newark, Dhaka, and Amritsar.

Sharjah Airport Delays Disrupt Regional Travel

Sharjah International Airport (OMSJ) has reported multiple cancellations over the weekend:

• Qatar Airways QTR1063 to Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha, scheduled for Sunday at 2:10 PM, was canceled.
• Air Arabia ABY375 to Damascus International Airport (DAM) at 10:20 AM on Sunday was also canceled.

These Sharjah airport delays have affected passengers traveling across the Middle East, forcing many to explore alternative flights or adjust itineraries.

Abu Dhabi Flight Disruptions Affect Long-Haul Routes

At Abu Dhabi International Airport (OMAA), disruptions have impacted key international connections:

• Ethiopian Airlines ETD956 bound for OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, originally set to depart at 9:10 AM on Monday, was canceled.

These Abu Dhabi flight disruptions illustrate the broader operational challenges facing airlines, particularly on long-haul routes, as they balance staffing, technical issues, and logistical constraints.

Dubai Airport Cancellations Hit Multiple Destinations

Dubai International Airport (OMDB) has experienced widespread Dubai airport cancellations, affecting flights to Europe, North America, and South Asia. Some of the major cancellations include:

• Air France AFR645 to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), scheduled for Tuesday at 6:30 AM.
• United Airlines UAL163 to Newark Liberty International Airport (KEWR), scheduled for Tuesday at 2:15 AM.
• UBG342 to Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka, with two canceled departures at 11:30 PM on Sunday and Monday.
• Air India Express AXB192 to Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) in Amritsar, set for Monday at 7:55 PM.

Overview of Flight Cancellations

Total number of cancellations: 9

Understanding the Broader Impact

These disruptions highlight several trends in airline operations across the UAE:

• Passengers face delays and must frequently check with airlines for alternative flights or rebooking options.
• Airlines are managing operational pressures, including staffing shortages and technical maintenance, which have contributed to these Middle East travel updates.
• Travelers on popular international and regional routes must remain vigilant about last-minute changes, especially during peak travel periods.

Key Takeaways for Travelers

For anyone planning to fly from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, or Dubai in the coming days, here’s a quick summary of what’s affected:

• Sharjah International Airport: Cancellations to Doha (QTR1063) and Damascus (ABY375).
• Abu Dhabi International Airport: Cancellation to Johannesburg (ETD956).
• Dubai International Airport: Multiple cancellations to Paris (AFR645), Newark (UAL163), Dhaka (UBG342), and Amritsar (AXB192).

Planning Ahead

Travelers are advised to:

• Confirm flight status directly with airlines before heading to the airport.
• Consider alternative travel dates or connecting flights if your route is affected.
• Stay informed about updates on operational disruptions to minimize inconvenience.

The recent spate of flight cancellations UAE demonstrates the challenges airlines face in maintaining smooth operations amid complex schedules. By staying informed and planning ahead, travelers can reduce disruptions and navigate these changes with minimal stress.

In conclusion, UAE airports are experiencing notable disruptions that span regional and international routes. With Sharjah airport delays, Abu Dhabi flight disruptions, and Dubai airport cancellations, travelers need to remain proactive. Keeping track of flight schedules, communicating with airlines, and exploring alternate routes are essential steps to navigate the ongoing operational challenges. This wave of flight cancellations UAE underscores the importance of flexibility and preparedness in today’s air travel environment.