Severe Weather Disrupts Flights Across Dubai, Dammam, Seychelles, and Frankfurt: Travel Tips and Updates for Affected Passengers and What to Know to Avoid Delays and Cancellations

Published on December 19, 2025

The UAE’s bustling travel scene has been rocked by an unexpected weather disturbance. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in Dubai and surrounding areas have led to widespread disruptions, affecting flights departing from both Emirates and flydubai. Multiple flights have been canceled or rescheduled as the stormy weather causes travel chaos across the region.

The rainstorm, which started late on December 18, has forced a series of flight delays, with several airlines notifying passengers about potential flight cancellations. Travelers have been advised to check their flight status regularly and allow extra time when heading to the airport due to traffic congestion caused by the adverse weather conditions.

Emirates Faces Multiple Flight Cancellations and Rescheduling

As of December 19, Emirates Airline confirmed the cancellation of numerous flights. This includes both regional and international routes. Some of the affected routes include popular connections like Dubai to Tehran, Dubai to Muscat, and Dubai to Frankfurt.

In total, Emirates has suspended flights on routes to and from Dammam, Kuwait, Seychelles, and several others. The list includes numerous Middle Eastern and international destinations. These cancellations come as part of efforts to ensure safety amid ongoing weather disruptions, as flights struggle to maintain regular schedules.

The airline has taken steps to minimize passenger inconvenience by urging customers to monitor the flight status page and update their contact details in the airline’s system to receive real-time alerts. Emirates also emphasized that passenger and crew safety remains a top priority and all decisions made were in line with ensuring a safe travel experience despite the storms.

FlyDubai Cautions Travelers on Extra Travel Time

Alongside Emirates, flydubai has issued similar travel advisories for passengers. Flydubai encouraged travelers to allow extra time when heading to Dubai International Airport, advising that heavy rainfall could impact road traffic and airport operations. This advisory aimed to alleviate stress and ensure that all travelers arrive in time despite the bad weather.

Affected Flight Routes: What You Need to Know

The disruption has not been limited to one or two destinations. Numerous flights have been affected, both within the Middle East and beyond. Below are some of the most notable flight routes impacted by the weather disruptions:

• Dubai to Tehran (EK977/978)
• Dubai to Dammam (EK823/824)
• Dubai to Muscat (EK866/867)
• Dubai to Seychelles (EK705/796)
• Dubai to Malé (EK656/657)

These are just a few examples, and further updates are expected as the weather continues to evolve. The disruptions have been felt across the UAE, with flights not only canceled but also rescheduled or delayed. Travelers on international routes have also been impacted, particularly those traveling to cities like Frankfurt, Incheon, and Colombo.

Tips for Travelers During Dubai’s Weather Disruptions

For those planning to travel to or from Dubai, it is essential to stay informed and prepared. Here are a few tips to navigate the current disruptions:

• Monitor Your Flight Status: Always check your airline’s official website for updates regarding cancellations or delays.
• Allow Extra Travel Time: Due to weather-induced traffic disruptions, it’s a good idea to reach the airport well ahead of time to avoid missing your flight.
• Ensure Contact Information is Up to Date: Make sure your contact details with the airline are correct, so you can receive real-time alerts regarding any changes.
• Stay Calm and Patient: Flight disruptions can be frustrating, but maintaining patience and following your airline’s instructions will make the process easier for everyone.

Looking Ahead: When Will Travel Return to Normal?

While the exact timeline for recovery remains unclear, Emirates and flydubai are working tirelessly to manage the situation as best as possible. The airlines have promised to keep passengers informed with the latest updates, as the weather is expected to improve gradually.

Given the unpredictable nature of the weather in the region, it is likely that some travel disruptions will continue for the next few days. However, once the storm clears, Dubai’s airport operations should return to normal, allowing for smoother travel once again.

In the meantime, travelers are urged to remain in contact with their respective airlines and stay updated on any changes to their flight schedules. While this unexpected rainstorm may have caused some travel chaos, Dubai’s vibrant tourism and airport infrastructure are expected to bounce back quickly.