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Massive disruptions are hitting UK travelers heading to or connecting through the Middle East today. Following the sudden escalation of military conflict between the US and Iran, major aviation hubs including Dubai International and Doha have completely suspended all flight operations.
If you have a winter break planned or a connecting flight through the Gulf this weekend, here is everything you need to know about the current travel chaos and what to do next.
Why Are Flights to Dubai and Doha Cancelled?
The unprecedented airspace closures come in response to the US launching military strikes on Iran. In retaliation, counter-strikes have targeted US military bases across Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Israel.
Because of the active threat in the skies, both the UAE and Qatar have closed their airspace as an "exceptional precautionary measure."
Emergency FCDO Warnings for UK Tourists
The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) has urgently upgraded its travel advice. For Britons already on the ground in the affected countries, the FCDO issued a stark warning to "immediately shelter in place."
"Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities." – UK FCDO
The government is also strictly advising against all travel to Israel and Palestine.
Which UK Airlines Are Affected?
Airports across the UK—including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester—are seeing major delays and cancellations. Here is the latest from the airlines:
British Airways: Flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain are cancelled through March 3rd. Saturday services to Amman, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Doha are also grounded. (One BA flight from London to Doha was even forced to turn around mid-air). BA is allowing affected customers to change their flights for free.
Wizz Air: All flights between London Luton and Tel Aviv are suspended until March 7th.
Virgin Atlantic: Virgin is avoiding Iranian airspace entirely. If you are flying to India or the Maldives, expect your flight to take significantly longer.
Middle Eastern Carriers: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Kuwait Airways, and Etihad have all axed multiple flights out of UK airports as their home bases shut down.
Chaos on the Ground: Dubai and Doha at a Standstill
For passengers already in the Middle East, the situation on the ground is highly volatile.
Dubai: All operations at Dubai International (DXB), Dubai World Central, and Abu Dhabi's Zayed International are paused. Witnesses speaking to Reuters reported hearing air raid sirens and at least three large blasts over Dubai as people ran for shelter. Debris from intercepted missiles reportedly caused a fire near the entrance of the five-star Fairmont The Palm hotel.
Doha: Qatar’s international airport is fully locked down. Social media footage has shown intercepted missile debris falling into residential areas in Doha, which sits close to America's massive al-Udeid airbase.
What Should You Do If You Have a Flight Booked?
If you are scheduled to fly to or through the Middle East in the coming days:
Do not go to the airport without checking your flight status online first.
Contact your airline. Most airlines are waiving fees for flight changes or offering refunds due to these extraordinary circumstances.
Monitor the FCDO website for real-time safety updates.
Travel advice 28 February.
— UK Civil Aviation Authority (@UK_CAA) February 28, 2026
Passengers travelling to the Middle East Area are advised to regularly check with their airline before leaving for the airport.
We also advise checking the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
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