The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced the temporary, full closure of the UAE’s airspace, as an exceptional precautionary measure to ensure the safety of flights and air crew amid rapidly evolving regional developments.
The GCAA said that the decision was taken following a comprehensive assessment of security and operational risks, and in full coordination with relevant national and international authorities.
It also called on passengers to contact their respective airlines to obtain the latest updates regarding flight schedules, adding that accommodation and other assistance will be provided to affected travellers by the airlines in coordination with the relevant local authorities.
UAE temporarily closes its airspace exceptional precautionary measure#WamNews https://t.co/LsEtHvuJRt pic.twitter.com/kmRp0vFsps
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) March 16, 2026

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed shares message of hope on World Humanitarian Day
DP World, WFP deliver 5,000 tonnes of rice to support food aid in Africa
Dubai enhances worker wellbeing through community markets
Dubai advances autonomous mobility as robotaxi travel tops 4 million km
Gargash shuts rumours on residency cancellations, Iran assistance
UAE mediates exchange of 206 prisoners between Russia, Ukraine
UAE launches campaign to support Palestinian students in Gaza
UAE halts all trade and financial transactions with Iran
UAE air defences detect two ballistic missiles
UAE says situation is safe after missile threat
UAE condemns Israeli raids on Syrian military airbase
UAE, US Presidents discuss regional developments
UAE advances Zayed’s humanitarian legacy across borders
UAE updates scholarship rules for Emirati students
UAE condemns Iranian attacks on Iraq's Kurdistan
Dubai upgrades key traffic corridor in Al Quoz to ease congestion
Sheikh Abdullah discusses regional developments with Kuwaiti FM
UAE Floating Hospital welcomes new Indonesian medical team
UAE and Oman leaders discuss stronger ties, regional stability
UAE approves new oral treatment for vitiligo patients
