UAE restricts airspace after Iranian missile, drone attack

United Arab Emirates has restricted its airspace and activated emergency security protocols following reported missile and drone threats. The measures have disrupted regional flight routes, leading to diversions and operational delays.

Reuters

5 May 2026 at 11:47:30

FILE PHOTO: An Emirates airplane at Dubai International Airport, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 8, 2026.

Reuters

The United Arab Emirates restricted flights to a handful of approved routes until at least May 11 and activated emergency security protocols, according to Notices to Air Men (NOTAMs) published by its General Civil Aviation Authority.

The restrictions came two days after the UAE had lifted all precautionary airspace measures and said its airspace was clear.
UAE said on Monday that its air defences were thwarting Iranian missiles and drones, forcing multiple flights to divert to Oman's Muscat and circle over Saudi Arabia.
The NOTAMs stated "EMIRATES FIR PARTIALLY CLOSED", referring to the flight information region, and adding that flights into and out of the UAE were permitted only via specific entry and exit points.

-Reporting by Reuters