Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways has extended its suspension of passenger flights to and from the capital city, as regional airspace closures continue to disrupt operations. The airline announced that all flights are grounded until 2 p.m. Local time on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, impacting travel plans for many.
The ongoing disruptions highlight the sensitivity of air travel to geopolitical events in the region. Etihad is advising passengers to check the status of their flights on the airline’s website and to ensure their contact information is up-to-date in their booking.
Passengers who booked Etihad tickets on or before February 28, 2026, for travel through March 7, 2026, can rebook their flights free of charge on Etihad flights through March 18, 2026. Those traveling on all Etihad flights through March 7 can also request a full refund through the airline’s refund form or via their travel agent, with those who booked through travel agencies directed to contact their agent directly.
According to the airline, the safety of passengers and crew remains its top priority, and services will resume only after all safety standards are met. Etihad Airways stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
The flight suspensions come as other airlines in the region also adjust their schedules. Al Arabiya reported on the continued impact of airspace closures on regional air travel.
Emirates airline is also experiencing limited operations, with flights suspended until 11:59 p.m. On March 4, 2026, Egypt Telegraph reported. The report also noted that the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship has processed 30,913 travelers through the country’s airports.
Limited exceptional flights are beginning to operate in airports across the UAE, according to Al Roeya. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah airports are seeing a gradual resumption of service.
CNN Arabic reports a limited resumption of air travel in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
