UAE Joins Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain in Preparing Airlines for US-Iran Tensions Affecting Airspace : Click to Know More

Published on February 23, 2026

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Emirati airlines, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and flydubai, are on high alert this weekend after the US issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) warning of potential military action against Iran. Analysts have pointed out that any temporary closure of Iranian or Iraqi air routes could lead to significant operational disruptions, forcing Gulf carriers to reroute long-haul flights around the Strait of Hormuz, adding costly detours and delays to flights traveling between the UAE and global destinations.

US-Iran Tensions Create New Airspace Risks for Gulf Airlines

The escalation of tensions between the US and Iran has put regional airspace in jeopardy, especially in the busy corridors over the Persian Gulf. If Iranian or Iraqi airspace were to be closed, long-haul flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Gulf airports could face detours, adding as much as two to three hours to flight times. This translates into an extra US $6,000–7,500 in fuel, crew, and maintenance costs for every additional flight hour.

Emirati airlines are known for their extensive global networks, connecting the UAE to Europe, the Americas, Asia, and beyond. However, these detours could disrupt many daily flights to major destinations like London, New York, and Johannesburg, with significant delays and rising operational costs for airlines. The affected routes, which currently pass through Iranian and Iraqi airspace, are crucial for maintaining efficiency and reducing flight durations for long-haul travelers.

Implications for Airline Operations: Long-Term and Short-Term Challenges

For Emirates, Etihad Airways, and flydubai, the uncertainty surrounding US–Iran relations has put operational flexibility to the test. While the UAE’s long-haul hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are well-prepared with contingency corridors over Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea, any blanket no-fly zone in the Gulf would require major adjustments. Airlines may have to add considerable extra time to routes, disrupting daily flight schedules and affecting both passengers and cargo shipments.

Additionally, cargo services are facing the brunt of these disruptions. Perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and flowers from South Asia and East Africa rely heavily on Dubai World Central for their trans-shipment to global markets, often under tight cold-chain deadlines. Extended detours could cause delays in delivering goods, leading to financial losses for shippers and supply chain challenges.

Advising Travelers: What to Expect from Potential Delays

For travelers, this development means a higher likelihood of delays and disruptions, particularly for those flying to and from long-haul destinations. Corporate travel managers are advising business travelers to allow for extra connection time and to book flexible tickets that can accommodate potential schedule changes. These precautions will help ensure that any unexpected delays do not interfere with tight meeting schedules or other time-sensitive commitments.

Travel risk consultants are also reminding companies and individual travelers that war-risk insurance premiums can increase rapidly after the issuance of a NOTAM, especially if tensions escalate further. This could lead to higher costs for short-notice evacuations or adjustments to travel itineraries. Corporate clients should be aware that insurance premiums can rise dramatically within hours of an announcement, making it crucial to secure coverage ahead of time.

Tourism Impact: Potential Disruptions for Leisure Travelers

The disruptions caused by these potential detours could also have an impact on tourism. With the peak holiday season approaching, leisure travelers heading to popular European and American destinations from the UAE might find their plans delayed or rerouted. This could affect not just those traveling for vacations but also passengers attending events, such as concerts, conferences, or weddings, which have strict timelines.

In addition to flight delays, travelers may encounter longer transit times at airports, as airlines adjust their schedules to manage rerouted flights. This could lead to longer wait times at check-in counters, immigration, and security screenings, as airlines and airports work to accommodate the changes in flight schedules.

Airlines Prepare for Potential Operational Adjustments

Both Emirates and Etihad Airways have extensive operations connecting the UAE to destinations across the globe. As the situation evolves, these airlines will need to adjust their operations based on any new developments regarding the security of regional airspace. To minimize the effects of potential disruptions, airlines may be forced to adjust their flight plans, potentially shifting routes or increasing the number of layovers for certain flights.

Emirati airlines are also likely to ramp up communication with passengers, especially corporate travelers, to ensure they are aware of any changes. Travelers are advised to stay in touch with airlines for the latest information regarding flight status and alternative arrangements.

Preparing for the Worst-Case Scenario: Alternatives and Contingencies

In the worst-case scenario, where airspace is closed for an extended period, the UAE’s aviation sector may need to turn to alternative methods of air transport or adjust existing routes to avoid the affected areas. While this might lead to delays, airlines are likely to prioritize the safety of passengers and crew above all else. Additionally, airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will need to coordinate with air traffic control authorities to manage the flow of traffic while maintaining safety standards.

While the region’s airspace may not experience a prolonged shutdown, travelers should be prepared for the possibility of further announcements or cancellations. Monitoring official updates from airlines, government agencies, and airports will help keep travelers informed and minimize inconvenience.