Dubai International Airport (DXB) operations were disrupted due to heavy rains and flooding, causing temporary suspensions and the cancellation of numerous flights, according to Gulf News. A spokesperson from DXB reported that operations were halted for 25 minutes due to the intense storm but have now resumed and are currently in recovery mode.
“Due to the intense storm, operations were temporarily suspended for 25 minutes this afternoon, but have since recommenced, and are now in recovery mode,” the airport conveyed in a statement. “A total of 21 outbound and 24 inbound flights have been cancelled since 12.02 am this morning, and 3 flights were diverted to other neighbouring airports,” added the spokesperson.
The disruption is expected to continue, with major flooding on access roads to the airport and weather forecasts predicting ongoing delays. “Response teams have been activated and we are working closely with airlines and other service partners to restore normal operations at the earliest and minimise inconvenience to our customers,” the spokesperson explained to Gulf News.
Local airlines are also feeling the impact of the adverse weather. Flydubai announced that the weather conditions had affected its schedule. “We have cancelled some flights and are currently experiencing some delays. We are working hard to minimise any disruption to our passengers’ travel schedules and are coordinating with all parties at the airport,” stated a flydubai spokesperson.
Emirates Airlines and Etihad Airways also issued advisories urging travelers to check flight statuses and allow extra travel time to the airport. “We urge guests to check directly with their airline to obtain the latest information on the status of their flight, allow extra travel time to the airport, and use Dubai Metro for smoother transit,” both airlines advised.
Passengers are recommended to check directly with their airlines, allow significant extra travel time, and consider using Dubai Metro, which has extended its operating hours until 3 am to accommodate the increased need for alternative transport methods.
