.png)
UAE Re-entry Rule Update: Deadline Over
The UAE government had introduced a temporary relief for residents whose visas expired while they were stranded outside the country due to flight disruptions and airspace closures.
This rule mainly applied to visas that expired on or after February 28, 2026.
What Was Allowed?
- UAE residents could re-enter without applying for a new visa
- No fines or penalties for overstaying due to travel issues
However, this special exemption has now ended.
Important Update After March 31, 2026
- Travelers must now apply for a new entry visa
- Automatic re-entry is no longer allowed
- Missing the deadline means losing the exemption benefit
Best Airlines to Travel Right Now
Due to ongoing disruptions in the Middle East, choosing the right airline is crucial.
🟢 Most Reliable Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Etihad Airways
- Air India (ad-hoc + scheduled flights)
- IndiGo (multiple Gulf routes)
- Ethiopian Airlines and European carriers
- Southeast Asia routes (most stable option currently)
🟡 Limited Operations
- Emirates (reduced schedule)
- Air Arabia
- flydubai
🔴 Airlines to Avoid (Temporary)
- SpiceJet (cancelled operations until April 2, 2026)
New Flights to India from Middle East
Several airlines are expanding routes to India:
Jazeera Airways New Routes
- Tiruchirappalli flights starting April 7, 2026
- Bengaluru route starting April 9, 2026
- Mangaluru flights (twice weekly)
- Kannur flights starting April 14, 2026
These routes improve connectivity between Kuwait and South India.
Air India & IndiGo Route Expansion
Air India
Operating both scheduled and ad-hoc flights including:
- Delhi, Mumbai → Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Jeddah
- Kochi, Mangalore, Kannur → Gulf destinations
- Amritsar → Sharjah
IndiGo
Expanding routes from major cities:
- Mumbai → Medina, Riyadh, Dubai, Muscat
- Delhi → Abu Dhabi, Jeddah
- Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi → Gulf routes
Airline Refund Policies (2026 Guide)
Refund policies vary depending on fare type, airline, and situation.
Key Things to Know
- Refund processing may be delayed due to high demand
- Cancellation fees may apply
- Airline cancellations usually qualify for full refunds
- Agent bookings may take longer and include service charges
- Some tickets are non-refundable