MAI Suspends Dubai Flights as Middle East Airspace Closures Disrupt Global Travel

· Eleven Media Group Co., Ltd

Myanmar Airways International (MAI) has announced the temporary suspension of all flights to Dubai scheduled for March 1, 2026, following the simultaneous closure of airspace by several countries in the Middle East.

In an emergency statement, MAI said passengers affected by the cancellation of Dubai flights will be allowed one free ticket date change, subject to seat availability. Travelers who purchased tickets through travel agencies or online travel agents are advised to contact their respective agents directly for assistance.

The airline stated that the suspension was necessary to prioritize the safety and security of passengers and crew members. MAI also urged the public to follow updates on its official communication channels for the latest information.

The airspace closures reportedly occurred as Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes on U.S. military bases in several Middle Eastern countries, prompting emergency airport shutdowns in the affected nations.

On February 28, an explosion was reported in Dubai. Following the incident, operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world’s busiest international passenger hubs, and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) were suspended until further notice, according to airport authorities.

Airspace closures in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia have caused widespread disruptions to global air travel.

Related Articles

SSPC Chairman visits Thar Paung paper and pulp millThe successful implementation of paper production will reduce imports from abroad and reduce foreign exchange expenditure, said Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Services during an inspection visit to the Thar Paung Paper and Pulp Mill of Myanmar Economic Corporation on the evening of January 9.EMG, 10 Jan 2026Express passport service available for urgent overseas travel at nearly Ks 550,000The Myanmar Passport Issuing Board has announced that those who need to travel abroad urgently can apply for an express service for passport applications, which will cost nearly 550,000 kyats including the cost of the passport book. It is planned that those who need to travel abroad for urgent reasons will be able to apply through the express service without having to wait for online bookings or in-office processing.EMG, 01 Jan 2026Authorities pledge continued action against threats to election security ahead of phases two and threeAuthorities will continue identifying and taking action against individuals involved in incitement and propaganda that could undermine election security as Phases Two and Three of the general election are set to be held, according to officials. As of January 5, 2026, a total of 335 people—275 men and 60 women—have been taken action against under the Law Protecting Multi-Party Democratic General Elections from Obstruction, Disruption, and Destruction.07 Jan 2026Two Forest Drug Manufacturing Sites and Chemical Materials in Hsipaw and Mongyal Townships Shown to Foreign Military Attachés, Diplomats, and Domestic and International MediaIn northern Shan State, forest locations used for drug manufacturing and related chemical materials in Hsipaw and Mongyai townships were shown today (January 14) to military attachés and diplomats from foreign embassies, as well as to domestic and international media. Earlier today, a press conference was held at the airport guesthouse near Anisakan Airport in Pyin Oo Lwin regarding the seizure of large quantities of materials used in drug production and equipment used in online fraud and gambling operations in Thibaw and Mongyai townships, northern Shan State.14 Jan 2026Union Ministers Meet Kachin Residents Over Myitsone Hydropower ProjectA delegation led by U Tin Aung San, Union Minister and Chairman of the Electricity and Energy Development Commission, met local residents at Myitkyina University on February 20 to discuss the Ayeyawady Myitsone–Upstream Basin Hydropower Project. Union ministers, the Kachin State Chief Minister, officials, experts and community representatives attended the public meeting, which drew about 1,480 participants.22 Feb 2026UEC: Second-phase elected representatives must submit election expense lists within 30 daysThe Union Election Commission (UEC) has announced that the elected Hluttaw representatives in the second phase of the election must submit their election expenses to the relevant election commission within 30 days from the date of announcement of their names.EMG, 24 Jan 2026