Airlines worldwide have suspended flights throughout the Middle East following « major combat operations » launched by the US and Israel across Iran. Retaliatory attacks have struck Dubai, Doha, Bahrain and Kuwait, all hosting US military installations, alongside Israel.
Airspace surrounding these nations has been shut down, with significant Middle Eastern aviation hubs either severely limited or completely closed. Numerous British holidaymakers visit destinations such as Dubai, or use them as transit points for connecting flights. The Foreign Office has instructed Britons to avoid travelling to Israel or Palestine, whilst advising those currently in locations including Dubai, Bahrain and Kuwait to find shelter immediately.
It added: « Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities. »
British Airways has revised its guidance for passengers scheduled to travel to Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai or Tel Aviv over the coming weeks.
The carrier has confirmed that those with bookings on or before March 15 can modify their travel dates without incurring charges. It said: « We are closely monitoring the situation and have cancelled a number of our flights to the Middle East. Safety is always our top priority and we would never operate a flight unless it was safe to do so.
« If you are due to fly between London Heathrow and Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai or Tel Aviv up to and including March 15 you can change your flight date free of charge to travel on or before March 29. Customers travelling up to and including March 8 may also request a full refund. »
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British Airways further stated: « If you would like to do this, please call our contact centres on 0800 727 800 in the UK or 020 3250 0145 where a member of our team will be happy to assist. You can also find useful information, including details of your consumer rights, at ba.com/helpme. Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to welcoming you on board soon. »
On Sunday, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed that an estimated 200,000 Britons are thought to be in the Gulf region.
Over the weekend, a fire broke out at the five-star Fairmont The Palm, located in Dubai’s renowned Palm Jumeirah area, following the fall of debris from an intercepted missile.
The Burj Al Arab also sustained damage, whilst a terminal at the state’s bustling international airport was hit.
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