Although it is difficult to find an advantage in the current war in the Persian Gulf, the situation does, however, have one asset conferred by the Emirate's authorities upon local carriers: that of restricting the number of flights by foreign airlines.
Indeed, since the gradual resumption of flights Regarding the airports in the metropolis, Dubai imposes a limit on the number of frequencies for foreign airlines. Currently, international carriers are limited to one daily round-trip frequency to the emirate. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority explains this decision by the flight security situation and the need to best manage traffic flows. It concerns the two airports in the Emirate: Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport.
Civil Aviation has just extended this limitation. Foreign airlines will remain capped at a single daily rotation until 31 May 2026, with additional capacity only to be granted if operational conditions improve. This limit of one flight per day would remain in force "until capacity allows for more", which does not herald a rapid return to normal given the still-tense situation in the Gulf.
While flights operated by European airlines are largely unaffected – most carriers on the continent, such as Air France, British Airways, and Lufthansa, have suspended their flights – it is primarily airlines from other countries in the region or those coming from India that are very heavily impacted. Some Indian carriers are therefore mentioning an 80%to 90% reduction in their flights.
Anger is mounting among some international carriers who feel they are facing unfair competition from local airlines. Indeed, neither Emirates nor flyDubai are affected by the restrictions, de facto creating a near-monopoly.
As for travellers, they are held hostage: fewer flight options mean higher prices. Not to mention the potential risk of flying with a company that only offers one daily flight in the event of a disruption or cancellation… A situation that could drag on if the civil aviation authorities decide to extend the measure beyond May.
