UAE and Qatar Boost Support by Covering Hotel and Meal Costs for Stranded Travelers
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar are assisting travelers stranded due to airspace closures by covering hotel accommodations and meals. This initiative follows significant disruptions caused by escalating tensions in the region, impacting thousands of passengers.
On March 1, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the UAE announced that the government will take on all costs associated with accommodation for affected passengers. A circular from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) urged hotels to extend stays for guests unable to depart, reiterating that necessary expenses will be covered.
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has also reached out to local hotels to ensure that affected individuals can extend their reservations under current booking conditions. A spokesperson for DET emphasized the city’s historical success in navigating disruptions, highlighting a coordinated response across government and private sectors.
Approximately 20,200 passengers have been impacted by cancellations and flight rescheduling in the UAE. Qatar Tourism issued a notice on March 2, requesting hotels to accommodate those who cannot leave due to airspace issues, assuring that additional costs incurred will be covered. The authority made clear that the safety and well-being of all visitors remains a top priority.
Flight Cancellations Across the Region
As part of ongoing safety measures, the UAE has suspended all commercial flights but has initiated exceptional flights to facilitate the departure of stranded travelers. Airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, are communicating with customers directly about available flight options. Passengers not notified by their airline have been advised to stay at home and refrain from traveling to airports.
Etihad Airways announced that commercial flights to and from Abu Dhabi are suspended until 2 PM local time on March 5, while Emirates has extended its suspension until 11:59 PM on March 4. In Qatar, Hamad International Airport has halted all flight operations and passengers are advised against traveling to the airport. Qatar Airways plans to provide an update on March 4.
Meanwhile, Kuwait has closed its airspace following a drone strike at Kuwait International Airport on February 28, resulting in injuries to nine workers. The Public Authority for Civil Aviation is currently assessing damage and aims to restore operations promptly.
Other airlines, such as Oman Air and Saudia, have also halted flights to several destinations, including Amman, Dubai, and Kuwait, amid ongoing safety concerns. Oman Air reported that flights to multiple locations will remain cancelled until March 7, while Saudia has suspended flights until March 4.
For ongoing updates, passengers are encouraged to monitor official airline communications.
Published on 2026-03-03 14:03:00 • By Editorial Desk • Category:
