Dubai Flights Resume Slowly as Kuwait Airport Shuts After Drone Attack- March 09, 2026

Dubai Flights Resume Slowly as Kuwait Airport Shuts After Drone Attack

The aviation situation in the Gulf region remains highly unpredictable as tensions in the Middle East continue to impact airports and airlines.

In the latest developments, the United Arab Emirates intercepted multiple missiles and drones, while Kuwait International Airport temporarily shut down civilian flights after a drone attack caused a fire at fuel tanks. These incidents have raised concerns among travellers, especially those flying between the Gulf and India.

Here is the latest travel update and what it means for passengers.

UAE Intercepts Missiles and Drones Amid Rising Tensions

The UAE’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that air defence systems intercepted 16 ballistic missiles and 113 drones during the latest wave of attacks. Residents in several areas reported loud explosions, which authorities later clarified were the sound of air defence systems intercepting incoming threats.

Although the interceptions prevented major damage, the situation remains serious as the regional conflict continues to escalate.

Security officials confirmed that the UAE continues to monitor the situation closely while prioritizing the safety of residents and visitors.

Drone Strike Hits Kuwait International Airport

While the UAE managed to intercept most threats, Kuwait faced a direct attack on key infrastructure.

According to reports, two fuel storage tanks at Kuwait International Airport were targeted in a drone strike, triggering a major fire at the facility. Emergency teams quickly responded and managed to bring the blaze under control.

Authorities confirmed that the attack caused infrastructure damage, though there were no major casualties reported.

Due to safety concerns, civilian flight operations at Kuwait International Airport were suspended temporarily, forcing airlines to cancel or divert services.

Airlines Cancel Flights to Kuwait

Several international airlines reacted quickly by suspending flights to Kuwait.

Airlines that have cancelled or adjusted their services include:

• Emirates

• Qatar Airways

• Etihad Airways

• Turkish Airlines

Passengers with tickets to Kuwait may experience:

• Flight cancellations

• Rerouting through other Gulf airports

• Travel delays and schedule changes

Travellers are advised to check their airline’s official website or contact customer support before heading to the airport.

Dubai and UAE Airports Slowly Restart Flights

Despite the regional tensions, airports in the UAE have begun gradually restoring flight operations.

Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport are currently operating with limited flight schedules as part of a phased recovery plan.

Other UAE airports are also functioning with restrictions:

• Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi): restricted entry for confirmed passengers only

• Sharjah Airport: live schedule updates via SMS and social media

• Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah airports: limited flights operating

However, aviation authorities warn that flight schedules may change frequently depending on the security situation.

Airlines Operating Reduced Flight Schedules

Major airlines in the region are gradually rebuilding their networks.

Emirates

The airline is operating a reduced schedule from Dubai, advising passengers not to arrive at the airport without confirmed bookings.

Etihad Airways

Etihad has resumed limited services, operating flights to dozens of international destinations including several Indian cities.

Air Arabia and flydubai

These low-cost carriers have also restarted selected routes but are currently accepting only confirmed bookings.

Passengers using connecting flights should ensure their onward journey is operating before traveling.

Important Update for Travellers to India

Indian travellers flying from the Gulf region should be aware of possible disruptions.

Recent reports indicate that thousands of passengers have already returned to India on special or additional flights as airlines adjust their schedules during the crisis.

Authorities recommend:

• Checking flight status before leaving for the airport

• Contacting airlines for rebooking or refunds

• Following travel advisories issued by embassies

Airlines are also offering flexible travel options and free rescheduling for cancelled flights in many cases.

What Travellers Should Expect Next

Although flights are slowly resuming across the UAE, aviation experts say full recovery of flight operations could take time.

Travelers should prepare for:

• Reduced flight schedules

• Possible last-minute cancellations

• Route changes across Gulf airports

Until the security situation stabilizes, airline schedules may continue to change daily.

Related News from Travel Man Today

Dubai Airport Flights Resume: Doha Airspace Update March 3, 2026- Dubai Airport Flights Resume: Doha Airspace Update March 3, 2026