UAE flights face fresh wave of cancellations and delays as regional security risks persist
Dubai Access Club launches with five-year multiple-entry tourist visa for invited frequent visitors
Dubai airport chief predicts passports could disappear within five years as biometrics mature
Latest News
Philippines expands digital OFW Pass and support funds for 650,000 Filipinos living in the UAE
Manila is accelerating the roll-out of its digital OFW Pass in the UAE, integrating Emirates and Etihad into real-time verification systems and expanding the AKSYON welfare fund for overseas Filipinos. The move reduces airport paperwork, speeds fee refunds and offers stronger medical and legal safety nets for expatriate workers.
Regional conflict update: What UAE residents need to know about travel and security on 13 November
Fresh claims of Iranian and Houthi attacks have heightened regional tension, but UAE airspace and borders remain open. Travellers should expect rolling flight adjustments, monitor official advisories and ensure contingency plans for both air and maritime movements.
Lufthansa Group pushes back Dubai return to March 2027 as British Airways restarts Heathrow-DXB flights
On 12 November Lufthansa, Swiss and Eurowings said they will not fly to Dubai until 27 March 2027, citing costly detours around restricted Iranian and Gulf airspace. British Airways, by contrast, has just resumed daily Heathrow-Dubai flights but is still avoiding Abu Dhabi and Saudi routes. The mixed strategies highlight ongoing operational and insurance challenges for airlines and mean higher fares, fewer seats and longer routings for UAE-bound business travellers and shippers.
Lufthansa Group pushes back Dubai relaunch to 25 November amid regional security risks
Lufthansa, SWISS and Eurowings will keep their Dubai routes on hold until at least 25 November 2026, citing ongoing regional security concerns. The delay extends a seven-month interruption, forcing businesses to rely on alternative carriers during Dubai’s high-season travel period and limiting cargo capacity for European pharma exports.
What UAE residents need to know today as US–Israel–Iran tensions keep aviation on edge
A Gulf News briefing dated 12 November explains how the protracted US-Israel-Iran conflict is still reshaping UAE flight operations. Iranian carriers remain banned, Tel Aviv routes are curtailed, and Saudi services see rolling cancellations. With EASA conflict-zone notices valid until at least 16 November, travellers and employers are urged to check bookings daily, allow extra time at airports and follow official security guidance.
Gulf News bulletin advises UAE residents on travel risks amid U.S.–Iran tensions
A 12 November Gulf News advisory consolidates the latest travel-risk information for UAE residents as U.S.–Iran tensions persist. Although airports are operating normally, airlines are avoiding conflict airspace, and foreign ministries urge heightened vigilance, prompting companies to refresh duty-of-care and crisis-response measures.
Dubai launches faster biometric clearance and online tourist-visa option ahead of peak season
Dubai has switched on expanded biometric smart gates and opened an online channel for tourist-visa applications via its Visit Dubai portal. The upgrades slash airport processing times and let travellers from 50+ countries apply directly, giving companies a faster, self-service route to secure short-term entry permits during the peak events season.