Background

FlyDubai is a Dubai-based low-cost carrier founded in 2008 as a subsidiary of the Investment Corporation of Dubai. It operates over 100 routes from Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, serving as a budget complement to Emirates within the same government-owned aviation group.

In March 2026, FlyDubai joined Emirates and Etihad in barring all Iranian nationals from entering or transiting the UAE. The ban closed the last major commercial air corridor accessible to Iranians; FlyDubai had previously operated routes to Iranian cities including Tehran and Isfahan before hostilities began.

The mid-June Ceasefire briefly restored some regional schedules, but its collapse and the resumption of Iranian strikes on Gulf airports brought fresh disruption. FlyDubai cut its Kuwait services on 19-20 July 2026 alongside Emirates, Etihad and Air Arabia after Kuwait International Airport suspended flights following missile and drone attacks.

Common Questions

Has FlyDubai banned Iranian passengers?

Yes, FlyDubai barred all Iranian nationals from entering or transiting the UAE in March 2026, alongside Emirates and Etihad.Source: event

Which airlines banned Iranians from flying through Dubai?

Emirates, Etihad, and FlyDubai all barred Iranian nationals from UAE entry or transit.

Is FlyDubai still flying to Iran?

No. All FlyDubai routes to Iran, including Tehran and Isfahan, were suspended when the conflict began in March 2026.

When did FlyDubai suspend its Kuwait flights?

FlyDubai cut its Kuwait services on 19-20 July 2026 after Kuwait International Airport suspended flights following renewed missile and drone attacks.Source: event

How the World Sees Them

Iran

The ban amounts to collective punishment of civilians. Tens of thousands are stranded.

UAE Government

Transit ban is a security measure. Iranian nationals pose an unacceptable risk during active hostilities.

Aviation Industry

Gulf hub model fractured. Dubai's position as a neutral transit hub may not recover.