Emirates
Dubai flag carrier and world's largest long-haul airline; barred Iranians from transit.
Last refreshed: 1 April 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic
Emirates built the world's biggest hub on neutrality; can that brand survive taking sides in a war?
Latest on Emirates
- Has Emirates banned Iranian passengers?
- Yes, Emirates barred all Iranian nationals from UAE entry or transit in March 2026.
- Can Iranians fly through Dubai?
- No. Emirates, Etihad, and FlyDubai all banned Iranian nationals from transit.
- Is Emirates still flying?
- Yes, but on reduced schedules due to UAE airspace closures during Iranian missile attacks.
Background
Emirates is the flag carrier of Dubai, founded in 1985 and owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai. It operates the world's largest fleet of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, with a network spanning over 150 destinations. Dubai International Airport, its hub, is the world's busiest for international passengers.
In March 2026, Emirates joined Etihad and FlyDubai in barring all Iranian nationals from entering or transiting the UAE . The ban severed Iran's last significant civilian air corridor. Dubai had served as the primary transit hub for Iranians travelling internationally; tens of thousands used Emirates connections for family travel, medical treatment abroad, and business.
Emirates' operations have been disrupted throughout the conflict by UAE airspace closures and reduced airport schedules. On 16-17 March, the UAE closed its entire airspace overnight. The airline's global hub model depends on political neutrality that the Iran conflict has shattered.
