Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport resumes partial operations; travellers warned of reduced schedule
Etihad issues fresh advisory as UAE carriers rebuild network; Air India adds 16 extra flights
Conditional ceasefire with Iran raises hopes for rapid restoration of UAE air connectivity
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UAE grants automatic overstay-fine waiver for travellers delayed by regional airspace closures
Travellers who could not leave the UAE on time because of air-space closures after 28 February will not pay overstay penalties. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security has instructed immigration officers to cancel fines automatically, easing the burden on visitors, expatriates and the companies supporting them. The move limits legal exposure for employers and helps airports keep queues moving while flight schedules normalise.
Government readies second relief package for UAE tourism and hospitality operators
Economy and Tourism Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri says a fresh aid package for hotels and attractions is imminent. The plan will extend tax-and-fee deferrals, unlock subsidised bank credit and fast-track group e-visas to keep the sector afloat while flight capacity remains constrained. The move underlines the UAE’s determination to preserve tourism jobs and investment until normal air connectivity returns.
Etihad updates: 80-destination network operating; free changes for tickets through 31 March 2027
Etihad is now operating 80 destinations and has rolled forward its one-time free-change policy to cover new tickets booked from 6 March through 31 March 2027. Passengers travelling before 15 April may also refund or rebook at no cost. The airline says post-15 April schedules depend on EASA’s upcoming conflict-zone review, but the current waiver gives corporate travellers budget certainty.
Dubai Airport sees busiest day since conflict began as EASA ruling looms
DXB handled 223 outbound flights on 7 April, its busiest day since the 28 February airspace crisis. The surge comes ahead of EASA’s 10 April review that could reopen the UAE to European airlines. Emirates is courting demand with free date changes on new tickets, while entry restrictions for Iranian nationals remain in force.