New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) - UAE airlines Emirates and Etihad Airways announced on Monday their plans to resume a limited number of flights starting in the evening. This decision follows the confirmation from Dubai Airports about a partial resumption of operations after the airport had been shut down due to escalating tensions involving the US-Israel alliance and Iran.

Emirates stated that they will focus on customers with prior bookings as they begin to restart services gradually. The airline will reach out to passengers who have been rebooked on these limited flights directly. In their official statement, they advised, "Please refrain from going to the airport unless you receive a notification."

The Dubai-based airline clarified that all other flights would remain suspended until further notice, emphasizing their commitment to monitor the evolving situation and adjust their operational plans as needed. Updates will be made available on emirates.com and their official social media platforms. The airline expressed gratitude to customers for their understanding and highlighted the importance of passenger safety and security.

In parallel, Etihad will operate a limited number of repositioning, cargo, and repatriation flights, contingent upon strict operational and safety approvals by UAE authorities, as stated by the airline.

Currently, authorities have not provided a timeline for the complete restoration of normal flight operations.

Dubai Airports indicated that a small number of flights would be allowed to operate from Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) starting Sunday evening. However, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority stated: "Exceptional flights are now taking place at UAE airports. Please do not head to the airport until your airline has confirmed flight details to ensure a smooth process for all passengers."

This partial reopening follows widespread airspace closures throughout the Gulf region attributed to missile and drone strikes connected to escalating conflict. Over the weekend, several Gulf airports reported damage as Iran launched a series of missiles and drones targeting US bases in the Gulf as a form of retaliatory action, which led airlines to ground operations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha—vital transit points for global flights between the West and East.

Dubai International, recognized as the world’s busiest international airport, had suspended regular operations due to safety concerns. This closure disrupted global flight networks, as Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways utilize hub-and-spoke models to connect long-haul flights traveling between Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas via the Gulf.