Dubai limits international flights until 31 May

Dubai Airports has capped foreign airline access to a single daily flight per carrier until 31 May 2026, as fallout from the Iran war continues to disrupt regional aviation. The move has raised concerns among Indian airline operators already grappling with rising fuel costs and operational constraints, according to Reuters.

The restriction applies to both Dubai International Airport (DXB), typically the world’s busiest international hub, and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), and covers the period from 20 April to 31 May.

Most international carriers had already suspended flights to Dubai during this period, but the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), which represents major carriers including IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet, has raised concerns with the Indian government.

In a letter dated 31 March, shared with Reuters, the body warned that the restrictions could exacerbate financial strain on airlines already under pressure from elevated fuel prices and disrupted flight paths caused by an existing airspace closure over Pakistan, following military tensions between the neighbours in 2025.

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The FIA has urged officials to request a relaxation of the curbs and suggested India consider reciprocal measures against UAE carriers if allowances are not made.

Dubai’s hospitality sector will also be impacted. India was the largest source market of passengers for Dubai International in 2025, with 11.9 million travellers passing through the hub.

Alongside ongoing inbound flight restrictions, key source market government advisories warning against travel to Dubai and limited travel insurance availability will prolong low occupancy levels across the emirate’s hotels.

As demand slips back towards pandemic-era levels, properties are once again pivoting to domestic markets, rolling out attractive ‘staycation’ offers to fill rooms as well as restaurants.

Reverting to the Covid playbook, many in the sector are hopeful that once regional tensions ease, a similar surge of pent-up travel demand will return to help drive a swift recovery.