Emirates Airline has suspended all flights to and from Dubai until further notice, citing safety concerns due to escalating tensions and military activity in the Middle East.
In a statement issued on Saturday, March 7, 2026, the Dubai-based carrier said the decision was made to prioritize the safety of passengers and crew amid the rapidly evolving regional security situation.
The airline advised affected travelers not to proceed to the airport while the suspension remains in place and promised to provide further updates as soon as more information becomes available.
Passengers with existing bookings are urged to monitor official Emirates channels for rebooking, refund, or alternative travel options.
The suspension follows widespread airspace closures and restrictions across parts of the Middle East, driven by ongoing missile exchanges and military operations. Several airlines in the Gulf region have similarly adjusted routes or canceled flights due to safety risks.
Dubai remains one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, with Emirates operating thousands of weekly flights across six continents. The halt has disrupted both direct travel to the emirate and transit connections for global passengers.
The announcement comes amid reports of a major explosion at Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran early Saturday. Eyewitnesses described multiple loud blasts in western Tehran, with thick smoke rising and fires visible near the airport grounds. Air defense systems were reportedly activated across the capital.
Videos circulating online showed aircraft on the tarmac engulfed in flames, though the full extent of damage and casualties remains unclear. Israeli officials stated the strikes targeted high-priority sites in Tehran, while Iranian media confirmed explosions in the western part of the city.
Mehrabad Airport, a key civilian and military facility, has been affected in previous incidents during the conflict. The developments have intensified concerns over regional aviation safety and contributed to further disruptions in global air travel.
