NEW travel advice as well as flight cancellations have affected Brits travelling to Dubai following the attack on Iran by the US.
Here is everything you need to know about the latest travel advice for Dubai.
What is happening in Iran and why is it affecting Dubai?
On Sunday, the US bombed three nuclear facilities in Iran, amid an ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.
The attacks lead to the closure of the airspace over Iran, Israel and Jordan, leading to a number of flight cancellations and diversions.
Is it still safe to travel to Dubai?
The UK government has not banned any travel to Dubai.
However, they have updated the latest travel advice, warning of short-notice changes.
The UK Foreign Office website states: “Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran have the potential to deteriorate further, quickly and without warning including since US military strikes against Iran on 22 June.
“There is a possibility of travel disruption, including short-notice airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights, and other unanticipated travel impacts.”
They advise reading the current guidance on what to do if affected by a crisis abroad, as well as monitor local media outlet.
Avoiding travel to any military bases and keeping up with your airline’s latest update is also advised.
Have flights been cancelled to Dubai?
British Airways cancelled a number of flights to Dubai over the weekend with hundreds of passengers diverted.
A spokesperson said they were “adjusting the flight schedule to ensure the safety of our customers and crew.”
Passengers with flights to Dubai or Doha up to June 24 can delay their trips until July 4.
However, British Airways flights are still going ahead as usual, with return flights to Dubai on sale today.
A British Airways spokesperson said flights to Dubai and Doha are “scheduled to operate as normal” although have schedule intervened on BA107 to Dubai and BA123 to Doha yesterday, and their returns.
Emirates flights from the UK to Dubai have not been affected.
More than 100 other airlines were also forced to divert their routes after the airspace over Israel, Iraq and Jordan closed.
Currently, flights from the UK to Dubai are being forced to fly over Egypt and Saudi Arabia to avoid Israel and Iran.
This means flights avoiding conflict zones are are adding 1-2 hours to journey times – for example, a typical 7-hour flight from London to Dubai is now taking as long as 8-9 hours.
Anton Radchenko, Aviation Expert & Founder of AirAdvisor, told Sun Travel: “For British travellers, the Dubai airspace disruption is more than just a regional issue, it’s a direct hit to one of the UK’s most relied-upon international gateways.
“Thousands of passengers fly to or through Dubai every week, whether heading to the UAE itself or connecting to destinations in Asia, Africa, and Australia.
“So, this wave of cancellations isn’t just a logistical issue; it’s an emotional blow for people, especially during peak summer time, not only derailing holidays but also creating a domino effect of missed onward flights, visa complications, and financial losses.
“Despite Dubai being largely safe, its proximity to conflict zones makes it highly vulnerable to cascading airspace restrictions.”
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
Can I cancel my holiday to Dubai?
As the UK Foreign Office has not warned against any travel to Dubai, you will be left out of pocket if you cancel your holiday plans.
Until a travel ban is introduced, you will not be able to cancel your holidays free of charge.
However, it is worth speaking to your holiday package provider or tour operator if you are worried as they may allow you to move it to a later date.
Mr Radchenko added that you also won’t be entitled to compensaion.
He explained: “The biggest frustration is the lack of compensation due to war being classified as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’ under EU261 rules.
“That means no payouts, even when flights are cancelled last-minute. However, airlines are still legally obligated to provide meals, accommodation, and rerouting.
“From a legal and consumer rights perspective, this event highlights the importance of booking with flexible terms and ensuring your travel insurance explicitly covers geopolitical disruptions.
“Passengers must know that while compensation might not apply, care duties still do and that distinction matters more than ever during global instability like this.”
