Dubai flight disruption continues after ‘unprecedented’ weather

Dubai International airport has warned passengers that flights continue to be delayed and disrupted following the “unprecedented weather” in the Gulf region.

It has now resumed inbound flights of international airlines operating at Terminal 1 DXB after flash floods hit the region on Tuesday (April 17).

“Passengers due to depart from T1 DXB should only come to Terminal 1 if they have a confirmed flight booking,” said the airport’s website on Wednesday morning (April 18).

Also on Wednesday morning, Emirates said on X, formerly Twitter: “Customers departing Dubai can now check in for their flights. Please make your way to the airport only if you have a confirmed flight booking, as the airport remains congested.

“There may still be delays to arriving and departing flights.”

The airline added: “Emirates extends our sincerest apologies to impacted customers who have experienced delays and disruption to their travel plans caused by bad weather and road conditions. We appreciate how difficult it is for everyone affected.

“While some customers have been able to return home or reach their destination, we are aware that many are still waiting to get on flights. Our teams are working hard to restore our scheduled operations, as well as secure accommodation and other amenities for affected customers at the airport.”

The BBC reported that about 300 flights to and from Dubai International Airport were cancelled for Wednesday, according to Flight Aware data, and hundreds more were delayed.

British tourists stranded at the main international airport told the BBC they had been there for 12 hours, with people sleeping in the lounges and on the floors.