Impact of the U.S.–Israel Attack on Iran: How It’s Disrupting Travel, Flights & Visa Holders

Last updated: March 4, 2026 (12:00)

Due to the war persuing on Iran, many countries are getting affected not able to travel to their home countries and are facing lots of impact due to US-Israel War on Iran.

UAE Airspace Update: Alternative Routes for Stranded Indian Passengers (Updated on March 4,  2026)

With limited flight resumptions in the UAE, stranded Indian passengers whose flights remain cancelled can explore alternative travel options. Safe air corridors are now open, handling up to 48 flights per hour.

🚌 Oman Air Bus Transfer: Sharjah to Muscat (March 3–5, 2026)

Oman Air is offering integrated bus transfers from Sharjah (SHJ) to Muscat (MCT) for passengers flying onward to India.

Bus Sector: SHJ – MCT
Station: Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah (operated by Muwasalat)
Travel Dates: March 3 to March 5, 2026

Bus Schedule & Numbers:

• WY2605 – Departure 07:00 | Arrival 15:00

• WY2612 – Departure 13:00 | Arrival 21:00

Passengers must:

• Book flights in advance with the airline
• Purchase bus tickets beforehand (not available at the station)
• Arrive 30 minutes before departure

The service is operated by Muwasalat and coordinated via approved travel agencies.

🛂 Oman Visa Requirements for Indians

Indian nationals must meet Oman’s entry rules:

• Apply for an e-Visa via the Royal Oman Police portal
• Or qualify for Visa on Arrival (valid US, UK, Canada, Japan or Schengen visa/residence permit holders, or GCC residents)

Passports must be valid for at least six months.

🛫 Special Flights from Fujairah

SpiceJet is operating special flights from Fujairah International Airport to Delhi, Mumbai and Kochi until March 5. Passengers must book in advance and contact the airline’s 24/7 hotline for assistance.

📞 Emergency Contacts for Indian Nationals

Indian citizens in the UAE can contact:

• Toll-free: 800-46342
• WhatsApp: +971 543 090571
• Email: pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in
• Email: ca.abudhabi@mea.gov.in

Passengers are advised to check directly with airlines and authorities for the latest updates before travelling.

Etihad Rail Moves 350 Passengers During Travel Disruption (Updated on March 4,  2026)

Etihad Rail transported more than 350 passengers between Al Ghuwaifat Station in Al Dhafra and Al Faya Station in Abu Dhabi after regional developments temporarily disrupted air travel. The special train service was arranged before the official launch of passenger rail services in the UAE.

The railway operator worked closely with the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC) to organize the operation quickly and safely. Authorities in Saudi Arabia also coordinated with UAE officials to support smooth transport procedures.

The service helped passengers who were unable to travel by air due to temporary flight suspensions. Freight train services across the UAE continued normally without any disruption.

Officials said the operation highlights the UAE’s ability to respond swiftly to regional challenges and demonstrates the readiness of the national railway network to support passenger movement when needed.

Middle East Conflict Travel Alert: How the U.S.–Israel Strikes on Iran Are Disrupting Flights & Visa Holders

The recent Impact of the U.S.–Israel Attack on Iran have led to rising tensions across the Middle East, resulting in temporary airspace closures, flight suspensions, and emergency travel advisories. Thousands of passengers — including frequent flyers, tourists, workers, and visa holders — are facing unexpected travel disruptions.

Here’s a simplified and updated overview of how the situation is affecting global travel.

Why Are Flights Being Cancelled?

Following regional security concerns, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) temporarily closed airspace in the United Arab Emirates as a precautionary step.

Major hubs such as:

• Dubai
• Abu Dhabi
• Doha

along with other Gulf regions including Qatar and Kuwait, experienced operational restrictions.

As a result:

• Thousands of flights were cancelled or delayed
• Aircraft were diverted to alternative airports
• Transit passengers were stranded
• Airlines rerouted flights to avoid conflict zones

Travelers are strongly advised to check flight status before leaving for the airport.

Impact of the U.S.–Israel Attack on Iran on Frequent Travelers & Visa Holders

The sudden airspace closure has created challenges for:

• Transit passengers connecting via Gulf hubs
• Visit visa holders unable to exit before expiry
• Residents stuck outside their country of residence
• Workers unable to return to their jobs
• Tourists stranded due to last-minute cancellations

If your visa is nearing expiry, contact your sponsor or immigration authority immediately for guidance.

Embassy Advisories: What Should Travelers Do?

Embassies in the region have issued safety advisories urging citizens to:

• Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel
• Follow official announcements
• Keep emergency contact numbers ready
• Stay in touch with embassy officials

Travelers near affected areas should immediately contact:

• UAE Embassy / Consulates
• Qatar Embassy / Consulates
• Kuwait Embassy / Consulates

Always refer to official embassy websites for updated emergency numbers.

Will you get ticket refund from the airline?

Airlines across the UAE have announced temporary suspensions and flexible travel options.

Most airlines are offering flexible options due to the extraordinary situation.

 Emirates

• Flights suspended until 15.00 GMT Sunday (March 1)
• Free rebooking within 10 days of original travel date
• Full refund available for direct bookings
• Passengers must check flight status online before departure

Flydubai

• Free flight changes within 10 days
• Can change to another city within the same country
• Refund option available
• Check status before leaving home

Etihad Airways

• Flights suspended until 14.25 GMT Monday (March 2)
• Free changes for tickets booked before February 28
• Travel flexibility until March 15, 2026
• Full refund for cancelled flights

Air Arabia

• Suspended flights until Sunday 15.00 GMT
• Flights to Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq suspended until March 2
• Option to keep ticket as credit
• Suggested rebooking at least 72 hours after original departure

Airlines have warned that call centers are experiencing high volumes, and online self-service options are recommended.

Special Flights Announced for Stranded Passengers in the UAE

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced that special flights are now operating across airports in the United Arab Emirates to assist passengers stranded due to recent regional developments.

According to the GCAA, these exceptional flights will help affected travelers depart the country under newly arranged schedules. Airlines will directly contact passengers with updated departure times and destination details.

Important Instructions for Passengers:

• ❌ Do not go to the airport unless your airline has confirmed your new flight.
• 📩 Wait for official communication from your airline regarding updated schedules.
• 📱 Regularly check your email, SMS, and airline mobile apps for notifications.

Authorities have warned that arriving at the airport without confirmed booking details may result in unnecessary crowding and additional delays.

The GCAA has thanked passengers for their patience and cooperation, emphasizing that following these guidelines will help airport staff manage operations smoothly and ensure an organized travel process during this period.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to stay connected with their airlines and monitor official updates closely.

Where to get more travel updates related to flight cancellation, refunds, delays?

To stay updated, please visit this page for frequent updates about flight delays, cancellation, refund.

Travel Alert: Indian Embassies Publish Emergency Contacts and Advisories

Amid the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict and rising tensions across the Middle East, Indian embassies in several countries have issued safety advisories and shared emergency contact numbers to help Indian citizens stay alert and secure.

As tensions continue following US-Israeli air strikes in Iran and heightened geopolitical uncertainty, Indian diplomatic missions have urged citizens to exercise utmost caution, avoid unnecessary movement and remain in close contact with embassy officials for updates and support.

📞 24×7 Emergency Contacts and Support

To ensure timely assistance in case of emergencies, several Indian embassies have issued 24×7 helpline numbers, email IDs, and other contact channels: