Dubai has introduced new limits on international flights, restricting foreign carriers to just one daily service to its airports until May 31, as regional tensions continue to impact aviation. This move is expected to significantly affect airline schedules and passenger travel across one of the world’s busiest hubs.
Flight Caps Hit Indian Airlines the Hardest
The restrictions apply to both Dubai International Airport (DBX) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), where foreign airlines will only be allowed a single daily rotation during the summer season.
This decision extends earlier measures introduced after the conflict in the Middle East disrupted airspace and airport operations. Dubai, which handled nearly 12 million Indian passengers in 2025 alone, is a key international market for Indian carriers.
Several airlines had planned a significant number of services into Dubai during this period. Air India and its low-cost arm, Air India Express, together scheduled more than 750 flights, while IndiGo planned 481. Saudia Airlines and Gulf Air had also lined up substantial operations, with 480 and 404 flights respectively, and SpiceJet was set to operate 61 services, as reported by Reuters.
Industry group Federation of Indian Airlines has warned that the restrictions could lead to revenue losses and has urged the Indian government to respond.
Ongoing Disruptions Across Middle East Aviation
The flight limits reflect wider instability across the region following the conflict, which has already caused widespread cancellations, airspace closures and reduced airline capacity.
In recent weeks, many airlines globally have been forced to suspend or scale back operations, with only gradual and partial resumptions taking place. Even now, flight schedules remain limited and subject to sudden changes depending on security conditions and available airspace.
For passengers, this means fewer flight options, higher demand for remaining seats, and ongoing uncertainty when planning trips through Dubai. Travellers are being advised to check flight status regularly and prepare for possible last-minute changes.
Has your journey been affected by these latest developments? Let us know in the comments.
