Gulf conflict forces UAE-Kuwait flight cancellations and schedule chaos
India’s Supreme Court unlocks interim passport and visa outsourcing for UAE missions
Dubai clarifies ‘Events Visit Visa’ to lure conferences and exhibitions
Latest News
Drone-related security risks wipe out 16 UAE flights to Bahrain and Kuwait
Etihad, Emirates, Flydubai and Air Arabia cancelled or delayed 16 flights on July 20 after Bahrain and Kuwait temporarily restricted airspace due to Iranian drone attacks. While UAE hubs stayed open, the incident underscores the need for robust travel-risk and itinerary-flexibility planning for Gulf business travellers. ([khaleejtimes.com](https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/aviation/bahrain-kuwait-airspace-flights-cancelled-delayed-uae-routes-airlines-iranian-attacks))
Flights to Kuwait and Bahrain restart cautiously as US renews global Middle-East warning
Limited flights between the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain resumed on July 20, but the US State Department’s fresh global advisory warns that further airspace closures could occur at short notice. UAE corporates should maintain flexible tickets and up-to-date evacuation plans as the security picture remains fluid. ([thenationalnews.com](https://www.thenationalnews.com/travel/2026/07/20/travel-warning-uae-kuwait-bahrain-jordan-iran-attacks/))
UAE residents told to carry their physical Emirates ID when boarding return flights
Gulf News reports that several overseas airports now insist on seeing the physical Emirates ID before allowing UAE residents to board flights back to the Emirates. Because the ID has replaced the old visa sticker, a digital copy is often rejected, leading to denied boarding and costly delays. Companies should update travel policies and remind staff to carry the original card on every trip.
UAE flights to Kuwait and Abha cancelled as Gulf tensions disrupt schedules
Etihad, Emirates, Air Arabia and flydubai cancelled multiple services to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia’s Abha on 19 July after fresh regional security warnings. While most UAE routes remain unaffected, travellers are being told to allow extra time, check airline apps and expect schedule volatility. The episode illustrates how geopolitical flashpoints can quickly translate into operational headaches for corporates moving staff across the Gulf.
Carry your original Emirates ID or risk denied boarding, UAE expats warned
Gulf News highlights fresh incidents of UAE residents being denied boarding abroad for not carrying the physical Emirates ID, which has replaced the visa sticker as proof of residency. Airlines and foreign immigration officers require the original card; digital copies are often rejected. Corporates should update travel checklists and brief mobile staff accordingly.
US–Iran escalation triggers new travel and security alerts for UAE residents
A detailed Gulf News briefing links fresh US strikes on Iran to flight cancellations and higher marine-insurance costs affecting UAE travellers and businesses. The UAE urges restraint while its airlines cut Kuwait and Abha services. Corporates should review contingency plans, traveller tracking and insurance coverage.
Dubai’s next-generation Smart Gates slash passport-control times to seconds
GDRFA has updated its website to confirm that new iris-enabled Smart Gates are live at Dubai International Airport, cutting passport-control times to single-digit seconds for registered travellers. The upgrade supports the emirate’s high-volume traffic targets and offers tangible time savings for frequent business flyers.