Dubai has extended restrictions on foreign airlines operating into its airports, limiting carriers to a single daily round trip as capacity constraints persist following recent regional security disruptions.
According to communications from Dubai Airports, the cap will apply between April 20 and May 31, 2026, affecting operations at both Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport. The directive states that airlines will remain restricted to one rotation per day until operational capacity improves, with additional slots to be allocated only when feasible.
The measures build on earlier restrictions introduced after a drone-related incident near Dubai International disrupted operations and heightened security concerns amid tensions linked to the US-Israel-Iran conflict. While normal operations have since resumed, authorities appear to be maintaining a cautious approach to air traffic management.
The restrictions have triggered concerns among international carriers, particularly Indian airlines, which operate some of the busiest routes into Dubai. The Federation of Indian Airlines has formally urged its government to engage Dubai authorities to reconsider the restrictions, warning that the current arrangement could result in significant revenue losses and operational setbacks.
Airlines including IndiGo and Air India Express have indicated that the limitations have disrupted their summer schedules, despite strong passenger demand on India-UAE routes. The situation is further compounded by existing operational pressures, including longer flight paths and rising fuel costs.
Industry observers note that the caps disproportionately affect foreign carriers, as UAE-based airlines such as Emirates and flydubai are not subject to the same limitations. This has raised concerns about competitive imbalance on one of the world’s busiest international travel corridors.
Dubai remains a critical global aviation hub, with passenger traffic from India alone reaching nearly 12 million travellers in 2025. The continuation of these restrictions is expected to reshape flight schedules and capacity planning for affected airlines in the short term, as they navigate both regulatory constraints and sustained travel demand.
