Story perspectives

Middle East Conflict Grounds 11,000 Flights, Strands Thousands

3/3/2026

Center

Airlines Navigate Conflict

The Middle East conflict has disrupted air travel, leaving hundreds of thousands stranded as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha airports remain closed due to missile strikes, with more than 11,000 flights canceled.
Emirates and Etihad have cautiously resumed limited operations, prioritizing customers with earlier bookings.
Governments urge citizens to shelter in place while evacuation options are explored.
The disruption is affecting global travel and causing losses for airlines and hotels.

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UK Evacuates Citizens

Over 100,000 British citizens are stranded in the Gulf as missile strikes close airspace.
The UK is evaluating evacuation options, including military and charter flights and land routes via Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said 300,000 Britons are in the region, with many sheltering.
Injuries from strikes near Dubai International Airport illustrate travel disruption.
Authorities are providing support and information to those affected.

History

Historical Context

The Gulf War began on August 2, 1990, when Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait, leading to a swift occupation. The United Nations imposed sanctions, and a coalition of 42 countries, led by the U.S., launched Operation Desert Storm on January 17, 1991, to liberate Kuwait. The conflict's aftermath continues to influence regional stability and international travel today, as recent missile strikes echo the chaos of that era.

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Airlines Navigate Conflict

The Middle East conflict has disrupted air travel, leaving hundreds of thousands stranded as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha airports remain closed due to missile strikes, with more than 11,000 flights canceled.
Emirates and Etihad have cautiously resumed limited operations, prioritizing customers with earlier bookings.
Governments urge citizens to shelter in place while evacuation options are explored.
The disruption is affecting global travel and causing losses for airlines and hotels.

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