Polish tourists are stranded in Dubai as several Middle Eastern countries closed airspace following Iran airstrikes.
Airspace Closure After Iran Airstrikes
After the start of airstrikes on targets in Iran, several countries in the region immediately closed their airspace to civilian air traffic. The restrictions included Iran, Iraq, Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. Air traffic was suspended or redirected, with some aircraft remaining on tarmacs without permission to take off.
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the situation is dynamic and does not rule out further restrictions over Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Syria, potentially leading to more cancellations and delays in the coming days.
Dubai Airport Operations Suspended
Dubai airport suspended both take-offs and landings. Passengers who had already boarded waited for hours for decisions from airport services and carriers. Some flights, after refueling and crew changes, did not receive permission to depart.
Polish Tourists Affected
Among stranded passengers were Poles returning from holidays. One reported that after landing, refueling, and crew changes, their captain announced a departure within 30 minutes. However, after this time, they received notification of all air operations being suspended. Passengers spent about three hours on the aircraft before being escorted to the terminal outside the international zone without standard passport control.
Another Polish tourist described a normal morning at the hotel pool until hearing two loud bangs. About an hour before her planned airport departure, she received a flight cancellation notice. While feeling safe in Dubai, she prioritized arranging her return to Poland.
Airlines and Travel Agencies Responding
Carriers operating in the region are redirecting some connections through alternative air corridors, though not all routes can be maintained. This has led to cancellations of some flights to and from Europe, including Poland. Travel agencies are arranging accommodation for tourists until flights resume, with new departure dates for charter trips depending on aviation authorities and security conditions.
Polish Diplomatic Response
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that diplomatic posts are monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with Polish citizens. The ministry advises travelers to follow airline communications and register trips in the Odyseusz system, which facilitates contact during crises.
Safety in the UAE
No direct threats to tourists in Dubai or other UAE cities have been reported. Local authorities assure that order is maintained and urban infrastructure is functioning normally. Hotels, shopping centers, and tourist attractions continue operating normally, though air traffic remains restricted.
The extended stays are resulting in additional costs for some tourists. While organized trip organizers are responsible for accommodation, independent travelers face challenges negotiating with airlines and hotels.