The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have reopened their air space to civilian aircraft following a temporary closure prompted by escalating tensions between Iran and Israel.
The air space closures were implemented on 23 June as a precautionary response to heightened regional threats and air-borne weapon activity linked to the Israel-Iran conflict.
The swift suspension had significantly impacted regional flight operations and triggered widespread schedule disruptions across key Gulf airports. While airport operations are resuming, things are not entirely back to normal. However, the reopening of air space will see all civilian flights resuming, albeit with some delays. Impacted flights are being re-scheduled or cancelled.
These disruptions will affect the ability of mobile employees to easily and swiftly travel into and out of the named countries, and they may wish to plan accordingly.
The decision to lift restrictions comes amid signs of regional de-escalation and coordinated efforts to restore aviation stability. Flights at key hubs including Dubai International (DXB), Hamad International (DOH), Kuwait International (KWI), and Bahrain International (BAH) are now gradually resuming operations.1
While scheduled services are being restored in Dubai, Doha, Kuwait City, and Manama, airlines are urging passengers to stay informed as delays may persist during the transition back to normal operations.2
Aviation authorities across the region continue to monitor the situation closely.
Considerations for Travellers at This Time
Travellers may wish to consider:
KPMG in the Lower Gulf will monitor developments and endeavour to keep readers of GMS Flash Alert informed as developments occur.
Organisations with individuals travelling to the region with questions or concerns are advised to contact their usual travel agents, the airlines they are travelling with, their qualified immigration advisers, or a member of the Immigration team with KPMG in the Lower Gulf (see the Contacts section).
1 According to an Alert on the website of Dubai Airports: “Important Travel Advisory: Flights at DXB and DWC”: Due to recent airspace closures affecting parts of the region, flights operating out of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International (DWC) may experience delays, cancellations, or diversions. We strongly advise all travellers to check with their airline for the latest flight status before heading to the airport, and to allow extra time for their journey. See: https://dubaiairports.ae/.
And on the website of Bahrain International Airport,"Update: All flights to and from Bahrain International Airport have resumed, following the restoration of air traffic over the Kingdom of Bahrain’s airspace. The temporary suspension was implemented as a precautionary measure in light of recent regional developments. Passengers are kindly advised to check the status of their flights with their respective airlines for the latest updates." See: https://www.bahrainairport.bh/potential-delays-and-cancellations-due-to-airspace-closures.
Please note that by clicking on the above links you are leaving the KPMG website for an external site (non-governmental, non-KPMG), that KPMG is not affiliated with nor does KPMG endorse its content. The use of the external site and its content may be subject to the terms of use and/or privacy policies of its owner or operator.
2 According to an alert (last updated 23 June 2025) on the website of Emirates Airlines: “Latest updates on flight operations”: Due to the recent regional situation, a number of Emirates flights were rerouted enroute to Dubai on 23 June, but there were no diversions. After a thorough and careful risk assessment, Emirates will continue to operate flights as scheduled, using flight paths well distanced from conflict areas. Some flights may incur delays due to longer re‑routings or airspace congestion, but Emirates' teams are working hard to keep to schedule and minimise any disruption or inconvenience to our customers. See: https://www.emirates.com/ae/english/help/travel-updates/.
And the 24 June 2025 announcement on Qatar Airways Newsroom "Qatar Airways Announces Reinstatement of Flights as Airspace Reopens in the State of Qatar": As operations resume, we anticipate significant delays to our flight schedule. We would advise passengers to check qatarairways.com or the Qatar Airways mobile application ahead of travel. Click here.
Please note that by clicking on the above links you are leaving the KPMG website for an external site (non-governmental, non-KPMG), that KPMG is not affiliated with nor does KPMG endorse its content. The use of the external site and its content may be subject to the terms of use and/or privacy policies of its owner or operator.
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in the United Arab Emirates.
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