Following the implementation of new restrictions at airports, airlines have scaled back their services between India and the UAE. Multiple flights have been cancelled by Air India Express, while flights are operating on limited schedules.
On March 15, 2026, flight services between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) witnessed significant disruptions as UAE airport authorities mandated airlines to adjust their schedules across several airfields.
The notice from the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi highlighted that there would be only a few flights operating between UAE airports and Indian destinations, causing thousands of passengers to rush to check their flight statuses and rearrange their plans.
🚨 Travel Update
The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi says airlines are operating revised and curtailed schedules following instructions from the Aviation Authority.
✈️ Limited flights are currently operating between:
– Abu Dhabi
– Dubai
– Ras Al Khaimah
– Sharjah
– Fujairah pic.twitter.com/npf1dRkvgt— travelobiz (@travelobiz) March 15, 2026
Since that time, airlines have provided their operational updates in order to adapt to the new restrictions.
Air India and Air India Express Halt Several UAE Routes
>The national airline of India, Air India, along with its budget subsidiary, Air India Express, has declared significant modifications to their UAE flight schedules for March 15, 2026.
As indicated by the airlines:
- All flights operated by Air India Express to and from
- Abu Dhabi
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Sharjah
are under cancellation for the day.
- Both carriers will only operate a single round-trip flight on the Delhi–Dubai route.
The diminished services will function based on slot availability and existing conditions, meaning that further alterations may occur depending on the operational restrictions in place.
Passengers impacted by the cancellations are entitled to:
- Complimentary rebooking for a later date
- Full reimbursements for unused travel tickets
The airlines have also mentioned their commitment to return stranded travelers to their homes as swiftly as possible.
IndiGo Also Adjusts Flight Schedules
As the largest airline in India, IndiGo has made alterations to its flight schedule due to these new guidelines. Numerous flights connecting India and the UAE have been rescheduled or cancelled to comply with updated airport operating procedures.
Passengers are encouraged to verify their flight status online ahead of heading to the airport.
UAE Airlines Reducing Flight Numbers
The disruptions are not confined to Indian airlines. Significant carriers from the UAE have likewise reduced their services. Airlines such as:
- Emirates
- Etihad Airways
- flydubai
- Air Arabia
are currently providing limited services or reduced frequencies while the regional flight restrictions remain active.
Some airlines have reinstated select flights and are offering flexible rebooking or refund choices for travelers affected by the cancellations.
Reasons for Flight Restrictions
The flight cancellations are occurring amidst persistent disruptions in airspace throughout regions of the Middle East, compelling airlines to adjust their operations and change routes for safety considerations.
Consequently:
- Numerous regular international flights are still suspended.
- Only limited or specially designated services are currently in effect between primary Gulf airports and India.
Recommendations for Travelers
- Verify flight statuses directly with the airlines
- Refrain from going to the airport without prior confirmation
- Utilize the rebooking alternatives provided by the airlines
- Keep track of official updates from airlines and airports.
With developments occurring continuously, airlines indicate that flight schedules may further change based on airspace access and airport capabilities.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
