Thousands of Passengers Stranded Across the UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Istanbul, and More as FlyDubai, Emirates, EgyptAir, Air France, Qatar Airways, and Others Delay 1,692 Flights and Cancel 26, Disrupting Travel Plans at Major Middle Eastern Airports

Published on December 12, 2025

The Middle East is grappling with a significant rise in flight delays and cancellations across its major airports, as travelers face travel chaos at some of the region’s busiest hubs. With a staggering 1,692 delays and 26 cancellations, passengers flying to, from, or through airports in Dubai, Riyadh, Cairo, and other critical destinations are enduring significant disruptions.

Key Airports Affected by Delays and Cancellations

Dubai International Airport, the busiest in the region, has been particularly hard-hit, recording 313 delays and 8 cancellations. The city’s flagship airlines, such as Emirates and FlyDubai, have struggled to maintain on-time services amid unforeseen operational challenges. This disruption follows ongoing airspace issues and logistical bottlenecks, leading to widespread delays in departure schedules. The situation is compounded by inclement weather and airport congestion.

Further disruptions have been reported at Abu Dhabi International Airport, which experienced 113 delays and 1 cancellation, and Sharjah International Airport, which saw 97 delays, though no cancellations were recorded. Other airports in Saudi Arabia, including King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, witnessed 187 delays and 2 cancellations, while King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh faced 151 delays and 2 cancellations.

In Cairo, Egypt’s busiest air travel hub, the situation has worsened, with 206 delays and 3 cancellations. Flights operated by EgyptAir have been among the most impacted, with high cancellation rates across key routes. Cairo International Airport, a critical gateway for international travelers to the region, is struggling with flight scheduling, exacerbating delays for inbound and outbound passengers.

Airlines Facing Major Cancellations and Delays

Several airlines are at the center of this travel crisis, with notable carriers such as FlyDubai, Emirates, Air India, and Pakistan International Airlines experiencing the brunt of the cancellations. FlyDubai alone has seen a significant number of cancellations, particularly affecting travelers bound for Dubai from Sharjah and King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.

While Emirates has managed to handle the situation better than other carriers, they are still contending with delays on numerous flights, especially those to Europe and Asia. Air India has also faced setbacks, with delays at airports such as Sharjah and King Abdulaziz.

In Cairo, EgyptAir has been one of the hardest-hit carriers, as they recorded multiple cancellations and delays due to operational issues tied to aircraft availability. Air France, operating out of both Cairo and King Abdulaziz, has also seen flight operations severely affected.

Total Delays and Cancellations at Middle Eastern Airports

Passenger Impact and Travel Tips

The sheer number of delays and cancellations has left thousands of passengers stranded at key Middle Eastern hubs. For those affected, authorities have urged passengers to stay updated on flight statuses through airline apps and official airport channels.

Airlines and airports are working to resolve operational hurdles, but as of now, passengers are advised to arrive early for their flights to avoid last-minute surprises. Those with connecting flights should be aware of possible delays, which could lead to missed connections.

Airport authorities at major airports like Dubai International and Hamad International are currently working with airlines to streamline operations and reduce the congestion impacting passengers. Meanwhile, ground crews and airlines have been providing assistance, including accommodations for passengers on long delays and rebooking options for flights.

What Caused the Delays?

Various factors have contributed to the disruptions in the Middle East. One of the main culprits has been airspace congestion, with increased air traffic volumes straining the existing infrastructure. This has been exacerbated by weather conditions, with certain flights facing delays due to poor visibility or adverse winds. Additionally, maintenance issues have also delayed flights, leading to a backlog of aircrafts awaiting service.

Notably, airport congestion at Dubai International and Cairo International has added another layer of complexity, with the growing number of travelers during the busy holiday season leading to bottlenecks at check-in counters and security.

What’s Next for Affected Travelers?

While airports and airlines are working towards minimizing the impact on passengers, the disruptions are expected to continue over the next 24 to 48 hours. Authorities recommend that travelers check their flight statuses frequently before heading to the airport and consider making use of digital tools, such as the Airlines’ mobile apps and flight status trackers, which provide real-time updates on departures and cancellations.

Travelers are also encouraged to keep in mind that long delays could lead to changes in gate assignments, and staying connected with the airline will help avoid further confusion. Additionally, passengers with long delays should be aware that compensation for meals, lodging, and rebooking services may be available, depending on the airline’s policies.

Conclusion: Navigating the Middle East Travel Disruption

As the Middle East grapples with ongoing air travel disruptions, passengers are advised to remain patient and proactive. Airlines and airports in Dubai, Cairo, Riyadh, and other cities are working hard to get travelers back on their way, though challenges persist. For those with upcoming flights, staying informed and prepared for potential delays is essential.

In the end, while these disruptions are frustrating for many, efforts are underway to restore regular flight schedules. Whether you’re flying out of Dubai, Cairo, or Riyadh, taking steps to stay updated on flight statuses will help ensure a smoother travel experience during this turbulent period.