- Flight Disruptions
- UAE, Qatar airspace closures disrupt South Africa–Gulf flights
UAE, Qatar airspace closures disrupt South Africa–Gulf flights
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Possibly eligible for compensation
By Josh Arnfield
Last updated on 10 March 2026
14
Affected flights
3
Affected airports
6
Affected airlines
What Happened
Airspace closures over the UAE and Qatar have disrupted travel between South Africa and Gulf hubs. ACSA recorded 14 cancellations at Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban airports. Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, and South African Airways suspended or limited services, with airlines cautiously restoring operations from March 3. As of March 9, operations remain constrained: Emirates has restored about 60% of its network, while Qatar Airways and others operate limited schedules. Passengers are advised to confirm flight status and await airline guidance before going to the airport.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
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Flight Disruption Details
Airspace closures across parts of the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, have led to widespread disruption on routes linking South Africa with Gulf hubs. Major carriers—Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, and South African Airways—either suspended or curtailed services between South Africa and the region following missile attacks and associated airspace restrictions.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) reported 14 cancellations across major international airports. O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg recorded eight cancellations (seven outbound and one inbound), Cape Town International Airport saw four outbound cancellations, and King Shaka International Airport in Durban reported two outbound cancellations.
Airlines issued time-specific operational updates. Emirates suspended all flights to and from Dubai until 15:00 UAE time on March 2, 2026. Qatar Airways halted operations pending confirmation that Qatari airspace is safe. South African Airways suspended all commercial flights to and from Dubai until 15:00 UAE time on March 2, offering rebooking on Emirates-operated codeshare services up to March 5 and urging customers and trade partners to manage changes proactively.
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is engaging with affected citizens and advises them to remain in contact with the nearest South African mission. DIRCO noted that travel in and out of the region is currently not possible, while contingency evacuation plans are under review. Additional incidents were reported in the UAE, where a hotel on Palm Jumeirah and a concourse at Dubai International Airport sustained damage from missile strikes; fires were contained and operations began gradual resumption.
International reports indicate that more than 1,800 flights have been canceled across the region. From March 3, airlines began cautiously restoring limited services. Emirates reduced operations and prioritized passengers with confirmed bookings and transit needs. Qatar Airways arranged a small number of relief and repatriation flights. As of March 9, operations remain significantly constrained: Emirates has restored about 60% of its network, while Qatar Airways, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia continue to operate limited schedules.
Passengers are advised not to go to the airport without confirming their flight status directly with their airline and to follow carrier instructions on rebooking and travel advisories.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Cancellation
Cause
Other
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Possibly eligible for compensation
Flights affected
14
Airlines affected
Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, South African Airways, flydubai, Air Arabia
Airports affected
O.R. Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, King Shaka International Airport
Checked by
Josh Arnfield
Date updated
10 March 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Collect proof that your flight was canceled, e.g. boarding pass, vouchers and any other travel documents.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the cancellation and reasons behind it.
Request an alternate flight to your destination - or a refund.
Make a note of the arrival time at your destination.
Ask the airline to pay for your meals and refreshments.
Don't sign anything or accept any offers that may waive your rights.
Get the airline to provide you with a hotel room, if needed.
Keep your receipts if your canceled flight ends up costing you extra money.
