The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has released an urgent travel advisory due to rising tensions in the Middle East. This Breaking News update comes as air travel is being seriously affected in several countries in the region. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in the UAE is asking all citizens, residents, and visitors to stay alert and check with their airlines for the latest flight updates. This advisory is part of the UAE government’s efforts to ensure safety and awareness during these uncertain times.
Who Should Be Alert?
The Ministry’s warning is especially for:
- UAE nationals living in or traveling to high-risk countries like Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Israel.
- Residents and tourists currently in the UAE who are planning to travel to any of the affected countries.
According to the Ministry, “Due to the current regional situation and its impact on air travel, all UAE nationals, residents, and visitors must stay updated by directly contacting their airlines.”
Travelers Advised to Use Twajudi for Emergencies
The MoFA also encouraged Emiratis abroad to register for the ‘Twajudi’ service. This is a special registration system that helps UAE officials assist citizens during emergencies abroad.
The Ministry further added, “All UAE nationals in Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Israel should register on the Twajudi platform and call the emergency line at 0097180024 if they need help.”
Major Flight Cancellations by Emirates and Etihad Airways
In line with this Daily news highlights story, two of the UAE’s biggest airlines — Emirates and Etihad Airways — have made major changes to their flight schedules:
Emirates Airlines
- Flights suspended between June 13 and 15 to and from Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and Lebanon.
- Affected cities: Basra, Baghdad, Tehran, Amman, and Beirut.
- Passengers connecting through Dubai to these cities, including flydubai services, will not be allowed to board.
- Travelers should:
- Check flight status on emirates.com
- Contact travel agents or Emirates offices for rebooking
- Update contact details in “Manage Your Booking” on the website
Etihad Airways
- Flights between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv, and Abu Dhabi and Amman are suspended from June 14 to 16.
- Flights EY583/EY584 between Abu Dhabi and Beirut were cancelled on June 14.
- Other flights may be rerouted or cancelled, and affected passengers won’t be allowed to continue their travel.
Etihad travelers are advised to:
- Visit etihad.com
- Call the Etihad helpline at +971 600 555 666
Safety Remains Top Priority for UAE Airlines
Both Emirates and Etihad said that passenger safety is their top concern. The airlines also warned that more cancellations or delays could happen depending on how the regional situation develops. Travelers are encouraged to stay connected with airline updates.
Airspace Restrictions Across the Region
The travel disruptions began after a military clash between Israel and Iran. As tensions escalated, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon closed their airspace on Friday, which forced many flights to be grounded or rerouted.
However, by Saturday:
- Jordan reopened its airspace at 7:30 am (0430 GMT), as confirmed by Haitham Misto, head of Jordan’s Civil Aviation Authority.
- Lebanon’s Transport Minister, Fayez Rassamni, said that flights resumed at 10:00 am (0700 GMT).
- Syria’s aviation body also confirmed that civilian flights can now resume.
Stay Alert and Travel Safe
While the airspace in these countries has reopened, the situation is still very fluid. All travelers — especially those planning to visit or return from the Middle East — should regularly check airline websites and government advisories.
This is a Breaking News alert for everyone flying through or to affected regions. Checking flight status and having a backup plan can help avoid unnecessary stress during these unpredictable times.
