Dubai, at the eve of Expo 2020, is facing significant operational turmoil. The tightening up of security comes on the heels of several drone and missile attacks targeting the area. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has locked down Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This decision has heavily impacted movement and somewhat impacted airport operations. American tourists are some of those left high and dry, as the story remains ongoing.
Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport partially reopened on Monday. Air travel has been very limited and authorities have been working around the clock to restore some sense of normalcy. In much the same vein, Dubai-based Emirates Airlines declared on Monday evening that it, too, would begin to operate a limited number of flights. Sharjah Airport is partially operational, operating under a specific set of operational hours reinstated late Monday night. Yet, disruptions are still rampant, as Dubai’s airspace would close later that same evening.
Damage and Disruptions in Dubai
According to reports, some parts of Dubai have taken a hit during the international crisis. Footage has emerged showing dark plumes of smoke rising over the city’s skyline, particularly affecting the Palm Jumeirah area, where a hotel was damaged. The rapidly developing conflict has put locals and visitors alike on high alert.
The U.S. Department of State has already released alarming travel advisories calling on American citizens to shelter-in-place as they continue to monitor the evolving circumstances. The State Department stated that American travelers should “follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.”
Kristy Ellmer, an American tourist in Dubai for work, shared her harrowing account of nearly being caught up in the chaos. She recounted, “a very long night, lots of explosions, lots of warnings, a lot of jet sounds.” Her husband, Matt, said he didn’t know what they’d be heading home to, with all the confusion.
Stranded Americans and Travel Disruptions
Many American travelers recently learned they were stuck in Dubai, after the UAE abruptly closed all transit keeping Americans from returning home. Among them is former Team USA basketball player Destiny Littleton, who shared her terrifying experience: “I could hear the interceptor missiles… blow up the missiles coming towards us and that was very scary.”
The continuing unrest in the Middle East has greatly affected travel plans throughout the region. As the situation continues to develop, all eyes are turned on the countries facing the most substantial disruptions as a result of Iranian attacks. While the UAE tries to navigate these questions, many travelers are still unsure what to do next.
Emirates Airlines says they are prioritizing customers who booked earliest and will be directly contacting those rerouted onto very limited flights. The airline issued a rare travel warning, urging all customers to stay home rather than make the trip to the airport. All passenger flights are still cancelled indefinitely. We wish to take the opportunity again to thank our customers for their understanding and patience. The safety and security of our passengers and crew is, as always, our top priority,” an Emirates spokesman said.
Guidance for Travelers
The U.S. State Department has issued further guidance for American citizens abroad, stating that “Be aware the Iranian government may restrict or prevent departures from Iran. U.S.-Iranian dual nationals must exit Iran on Iranian passports.” This travel advisory illustrates the challenges travelers experience in this militarized region.
Zayed International Airport remains in close contact with their airline partners to keep their airport passengers informed of changing flight schedules. This need is more critical than ever before getting to the airport following recent announcements. “Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on flight schedules prior to traveling to the airport,” an airport spokesperson advised.
As travelers approach this unprecedented crossing experience, we urge everyone to stay updated through official government communications. Emirates Airlines is committed to transparency and disclosure. They’ll be updating their website and social media platforms with the latest flight operations and safety precautions.
