Planning to fly into Dubai on one of your favourite foreign carriers? You may need a backup plan.
Seven major international airlines have pushed their return to Dubai International Airport (DXB) into 2027. The reason is the ongoing conflict in the wider Middle East, and the airlines say the decisions put passenger, crew and staff safety first.
But before anyone panics, DXB itself is running as normal. Only these seven carriers are staying away.
Who’s Still Flying In?
Plenty of airlines are. Emirates and flydubai continue to operate to destinations around the world. Regional carriers including flynas, Qatar Airways, Saudia and Gulf Air have resumed services to DXB, and IndiGo, Air India and Turkish Airlines are still flying the route too.
So why are some foreign airlines holding back? Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths points to insurance. Many overseas carriers have struggled to get the cover they need to operate in the region. Still, he says most of the big long-haul airlines plan to return from the end of October as part of their winter schedules.
That makes the seven below the exceptions.
Air Canada: Back In Late March 2027
Air Canada won’t touch down in Dubai until the end of March 2027, according to its latest travel update. The airline had planned a January return, but that has slipped.
If you’re already booked, the airline is being flexible. You can rebook for a later date with no extra fees, switch to a different destination at no charge, or cancel and take credit toward a future Air Canada trip.
Cathay Pacific: Back In February 2027 At The Earliest
Cathay Pacific has cancelled every Dubai flight up to and including Sunday, January 31. The Hong Kong-based carrier was originally due back at the end of November, and this is the second time it has moved the date. Its Riyadh service is also off until January 31.
Existing bookings come with flexible conditions. You can rebook, reroute or ask for a refund.
Finnair: No Winter Flights
Finland’s flag carrier has suspended Helsinki to Dubai for the whole 2026/27 winter season. The route was meant to return between October 25, 2026 and March 27, 2027, but the suspension has been extended.
Finnair runs this as a seasonal route. That means Dubai is unlikely to see it again before October 2027.
Luxair: February 2027, If Things Go To Plan
Luxembourg’s national airline has delayed its Dubai relaunch to February 2027 at the earliest. It was one of several overseas carriers expected back in October 2026.
There’s a knock-on effect too. Luxair had also planned to start flying to Abu Dhabi, and that launch now looks like late 2027.
United Airlines: Back In March 2027
United suspended its Dubai operations in February 2026. Nonstop flights between Newark and Dubai are now expected to restart in March 2027.
Anyone holding a ticket for travel between October 24, 2026 and March 27, 2027 is eligible for a refund.
Virgin Atlantic: Winter 2027
The London Heathrow to Dubai route is normally seasonal, and it was paused earlier this year. Virgin Atlantic’s website says the daily service will come back for the 2027 winter season.
Wizz Air: March 28, 2027
Wizz Air has dropped its plan to restart DXB flights this winter. The Hungarian budget carrier is now aiming for March 28, 2027.
One practical tip: check your airline’s travel update page before you book anything, because these dates have already moved more than once.
FAQs
Which airlines have delayed their return to Dubai until 2027?
Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Luxair, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air.
Is Dubai International Airport still operating normally?
Yes. DXB is operational as usual. Only the seven airlines above are staying away for now.
Why are some foreign airlines not flying to Dubai?
The delays stem from the ongoing regional conflict in the Middle East. Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths says many foreign-based carriers have also found it hard to secure the insurance they need to operate in the region.
Which airlines are still flying to Dubai?
Emirates and flydubai are operating worldwide. flynas, Qatar Airways, Saudia, Gulf Air, IndiGo, Air India and Turkish Airlines are also flying to DXB.
What can I do if I already have a booking with one of these airlines?
It depends on the carrier. Air Canada offers free rebooking, a free change of destination, or travel credit. Cathay Pacific allows rebooking, rerouting or a refund. United is offering refunds for flights scheduled between October 24, 2026 and March 27, 2027. Check your airline’s website for the latest terms.
Also read: Wizz Air Returns To Dubai And Abu Dhabi This Winter: Routes, Dates & Fares
