Nigerians travelling to and from countries including Qatar, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates are facing travel disruptions as escalating conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran impact air travel across the Middle East.
Several international airlines, such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air France, Air India, Turkish Airlines, Norwegian, Air Algérie, and Lufthansa, have suspended or cancelled flights on multiple routes due to the heightened security situation. Passengers on Qatar Airways flights from Nigeria were asked to disembark even after boarding, reflecting widespread airspace closures across the region.
Syria closed parts of its southern airspace along the Israeli border for 12 hours, while Jordan conducted defensive drills, and Kuwait confirmed intercepting incoming missiles. Russia’s aviation authority also suspended all commercial flights to Israel and Iran until further notice.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) confirmed that flights linking Nigerian airports with Middle Eastern destinations have been affected, advising passengers to check with their airlines for updates, rebooking options, and further guidance.
The Nigerian government has issued a security advisory for citizens in Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries, urging them to exercise caution, avoid sensitive areas, limit non-essential movement, and cooperate with local authorities as the situation evolves.
