Thousands of Travelers Affected in the Middle East as Air Arabia, Saudia, FlyDubai, Emirates and more Face 88 Cancellations and 354 Delays, Causing Chaos across Sharjah, Dubai, Hamad, Gilgit, Seeb and other Destinations

Published on December 19, 2025

The Middle East is currently experiencing a travel nightmare, with 88 flight cancellations and 354 delays impacting thousands of travelers across the region. Airlines including Air Arabia, Saudia, FlyDubai, Emirates, and Pakistan International Airlines are facing operational challenges, leading to massive disruptions at major airports like Dubai, Sharjah, Hamad, Gilgit, and Seeb. Passengers are experiencing long delays, crowded terminals, and confusion, with no immediate solution in sight. The travel chaos comes at a time when the region’s airports are already under strain due to holiday season crowds.

Overview of Cancellations and Delays

The total disruption to air travel across the Middle East is substantial, with a combined total of 88 flight cancellations and 354 delays recorded in the last 24 hours. Here’s a breakdown of the number of cancellations and delays by airline:

FlyDubai and Emirates have been hit hardest by these disruptions, with FlyDubai suffering the most significant delays (133) and Emirates following closely behind with 152 delays.

Where the Chaos is Hitting Hardest

Several airports across the Middle East have been severely impacted by the ongoing travel disruptions. The most affected airports include:

• Sharjah International Airport (SHJ): Sharjah has seen significant delays and cancellations, with travelers stranded for hours. With limited amenities and fewer flights being operated, the airport is struggling to manage the inflow of frustrated passengers.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB): As one of the busiest airports globally, Dubai International has experienced massive delays, especially in flights to and from Europe and Asia. Long queues at security and check-in counters, as well as baggage handling delays, have compounded the issue.
• Hamad International Airport (DOH): Passengers at Hamad International in Doha have been facing an overwhelming number of delays, particularly with Emirates and FlyDubai flights. The airport is managing an increased number of passengers due to canceled and delayed flights, leading to congestion.
• Gilgit and Seeb Airports: Smaller airports like Gilgit and Seeb are experiencing delays, primarily due to weather conditions and air traffic congestion. Passengers trying to catch connecting flights are the most impacted.

Which Airlines Are Leading the Disruptions?

The following airlines have faced the brunt of these cancellations and delays, with each suffering significant disruptions:

• FlyDubai: With 20 cancellations and 133 delays, FlyDubai has been the most affected carrier. The airline has faced a range of operational issues, primarily with regional flights, resulting in the largest delays of any airline involved.
• Emirates: Emirates, a flagship carrier in the region, has also been hit hard with 20 cancellations and 152 delays. The airline has cited operational difficulties and weather conditions as the primary causes.
• Saudia: Saudia has experienced 20 cancellations and 47 delays, affecting both domestic and international flights. The airline has apologized for the inconvenience but has yet to offer a clear timeline for resolution.
• Air Arabia: While the number of cancellations for Air Arabia (20) was similar to other airlines, the delays (12) were comparatively lower. This points to operational issues affecting flight scheduling.
• Pakistan International Airlines (PIA): PIA, with 8 cancellations and 10 delays, has been relatively less affected than its competitors but still contributed to the region’s overall travel disruptions.

What’s Behind the Chaos?

Several factors have contributed to this unprecedented disruption in air travel across the Middle East. The main causes include:

1. Weather Conditions

Severe weather patterns, such as thunderstorms, fog, and low visibility, have played a significant role in causing delays and cancellations. Airports such as Dubai and Sharjah have struggled with poor weather conditions, which led to flight delays, particularly for smaller regional airports like Gilgit and Seeb, where the weather is often unpredictable.

2. Operational Challenges

Airlines have faced operational difficulties due to a combination of staff shortages, technical issues with aircraft, and the strain of managing a high volume of passengers during the holiday season. These factors have compounded delays across major airlines, particularly FlyDubai and Emirates.

3. Air Traffic Congestion

Increased passenger traffic during peak seasons, combined with backlogged flights from previous delays, has created significant congestion at major airports. This has disrupted the flow of air traffic and resulted in further delays and cancellations.

Impact on Travel and Passengers: How Are Travelers Affected?

The ongoing travel disruptions have had a massive impact on passengers throughout the region. Here’s how travelers are being affected:

• Stranded Passengers: Thousands of passengers have been stranded at airports, many of whom have missed connecting flights. With limited accommodation options near airports, stranded travelers are facing increased costs for hotels and meals.
• Increased Stress Levels: Long waiting times, overcrowded terminals, and the lack of clear communication have increased stress levels among passengers, many of whom are feeling frustrated and anxious about their travel plans.
• Missed Connections: Passengers with connecting flights have found themselves facing challenges in rebooking flights, as the backlog of canceled and delayed flights has led to limited availability.

Advice for Passengers: What to Do During Travel Disruptions?

Travelers affected by these disruptions should keep the following tips in mind to navigate the chaos:

• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on your flight status via the airline’s mobile app or website for real-time updates. Many airlines also provide email and SMS notifications.
• Rebook as Soon as Possible: If your flight has been canceled, contact the airline to rebook a new flight immediately. You may also be able to rebook via the airline’s app or website.
• Know Your Rights: Under EU regulations, passengers are entitled to compensation for flights delayed by more than three hours or canceled. You may also be entitled to vouchers for meals and hotel accommodations in case of extended delays.
• Be Prepared for Longer Waits: Pack extra snacks, water, chargers, and entertainment in case of long waiting times at the airport. Also, ensure you have essential items like medications or documents.

Conclusion: A Travel Nightmare for Thousands

The chaos unfolding across Middle Eastern airports is a travel nightmare for thousands of passengers. With 88 cancellations and 354 delays affecting Air Arabia, Saudia, FlyDubai, Emirates, and Pakistan International Airlines, travelers are facing unprecedented disruptions. While some airlines are working hard to resolve the issues, travelers are urged to stay informed and prepared for further delays. The situation should improve once weather conditions clear and operational issues are resolved, but for now, patience and flexibility are essential for affected passengers.

Source: Different airports and FlightAware