DUBAI: Flight operations across parts of the Middle East began gradually resuming today (Tuesday), after three days of disruption triggered by the escalating US–Israel and Iran conflict.

Partial services restarted at Dubai International, Dubai World Central, and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, though widespread cancellations continue, and passengers have been told to travel only if directly notified by airlines.

Airspace over Iran, Iraq, and Israel remained closed, while Jordan enforced a temporary shutdown. Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia imposed partial or temporary restrictions, according to aviation tracking updates.

Emirates and flydubai operated limited outbound flights late Tuesday to destinations including Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Moscow, Warsaw, and Belgrade. Emirates flight EK500 landed safely in Mumbai, marking one of the first arrivals after the suspension. Earlier departures included services to Chennai, Moscow, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and several European cities.

Abu Dhabi also resumed restricted operations, but Etihad suspended regular commercial flights to and from the emirate until 14:00 UAE time on Wednesday, 4 March, allowing only select cargo, repositioning, or repatriation services subject to approval.

Indian authorities said 357 scheduled flights were cancelled on 2 March and confirmed they are closely monitoring the situation. Special arrangements are being coordinated with foreign governments and airlines to assist stranded passengers.

IndiGo announced 10 special relief flights from Jeddah to India on 3 March, along with four additional services to Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad. SpiceJet scheduled four special flights from Fujairah to Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi on 3 March and plans to restore regular Fujairah services from 4 March. Akasa Air listed services between Mumbai and Jeddah on 3 and 4 March, along with Ahmedabad–Jeddah operations.

Despite limited resumptions, several airlines continue precautionary suspensions as governments work to evacuate citizens, with thousands of stranded travelers gradually beginning to return home.