Flight Disruptions from UAE to Kuwait Amid Iran-US Tensions

Kuwait City, Kuwait Jul 18, 2026 ALN: Dubai: Travelers flying from the UAE to Kuwait are facing significant flight disruptions after operations at Kuwait International Airport were severely affected amid the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States in the region. This situation has escalated due to recent military actions and retaliatory measures, leading to a temporary suspension of air traffic to and from Kuwait.

Emirates Airlines has cancelled multiple flights on the Dubai-Kuwait route through July 19, while Etihad Airways has listed its Abu Dhabi-Kuwait flight EY653 as "awaiting update". Air Arabia has also cancelled several flights between the UAE and Kuwait, according to the latest updates on its flight status pages. Passengers are strongly advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates before travelling to the airport to avoid any inconvenience.

Emirates Flight Cancellations

Emirates has faced significant operational challenges, leading to the cancellation of several flights between Dubai and Kuwait. The airline's decision follows a temporary suspension of air traffic at Kuwait International Airport due to a series of rocket and drone attacks targeting the country. These attacks have raised serious security concerns and have forced airlines to reassess their operations in the region.

According to the airline's latest flight status update, Emirates flight EK857 from Dubai to Kuwait, scheduled to depart at 2.55pm on Saturday, was cancelled. The return service, EK858 from Kuwait to Dubai, originally scheduled to depart at 5.15pm, was also cancelled. Furthermore, all scheduled Emirates services between Dubai and Kuwait on Sunday, July 19, have also been cancelled, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.

Emirates Flights Cancelled on July 19

Dubai to Kuwait

• EK853

• EK855

• EK857

• EK859

Kuwait to Dubai

• EK854

• EK856

• EK858

• EK860

Emirates has stated that these cancellations are due to operational reasons and has advised affected passengers to contact their booking office for assistance with their reservations. The airline is likely to provide options for rebooking or refunds as per its standard policy.

Etihad Flight Awaiting Update

Etihad Airways has also been impacted by the ongoing disruptions, with the status of two Kuwait services yet to be confirmed. Flight EY653 from Abu Dhabi to Kuwait, scheduled to depart at 8.15am on Saturday, is currently listed as "awaiting update" on the airline’s website. The return service, EY654 from Kuwait to Abu Dhabi, scheduled to depart at 10.15am and arrive in Abu Dhabi at 1pm, is also under review.

As of the latest updates, Etihad has not announced any cancellations, but passengers are strongly encouraged to check for further updates before travelling. This uncertainty reflects the broader challenges airlines are facing in maintaining schedules amidst escalating regional tensions.

Air Arabia Flights Cancelled

Air Arabia has cancelled its scheduled flights between the UAE and Kuwait, as indicated by the latest updates on the airline's flight status pages. The affected services include flights between Sharjah and Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi and Kuwait. The cancellations are part of a broader trend among airlines operating in the region, responding to the heightened security risks.

Saturday, July 18

Sharjah to Kuwait

• G9068

• G9124

• G9121

Kuwait to Sharjah

• G9069

• G9125

• G9122

Abu Dhabi to Kuwait

• 3L020

• 3L022

Kuwait to Abu Dhabi

• 3L021

• 3L023

Sunday, July 19

Sharjah to Kuwait

• G9068

• G9124

• G9121

Kuwait to Sharjah

• G9069

• G9125

• G9122

Abu Dhabi to Kuwait

• 3L020

• 3L022

Kuwait to Abu Dhabi

• 3L021

• 3L023

Passengers are advised to check the latest flight status updates with Air Arabia before travelling, as the situation remains fluid and subject to change.

Kuwait Airways Reschedules Flights

Kuwait Airways has announced that it has rescheduled most of its commercial flights following the temporary suspension of take-off and landing operations at Kuwait International Airport. This suspension was a direct result of ongoing Iranian military actions in the region, which have raised alarms regarding the safety and security of air travel.

The national carrier has urged passengers to regularly check their flight status, emphasizing that automated updates and SMS notifications are being sent to customers using the contact details provided during booking. This proactive approach aims to keep passengers informed and minimize disruptions as much as possible.

Attacks Disrupt Key Infrastructure

The flight disruptions occur against a backdrop of escalating military tensions, with Kuwait reporting fresh Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting military positions and critical infrastructure. These developments have not only affected air travel but have also raised concerns about the safety of essential services within Kuwait.

The Kuwait Petroleum Corporation has reported that a vital oil industry facility was hit during these attacks, resulting in injuries and significant material damage. Additionally, authorities have confirmed an attack on a second electricity generation and water desalination plant, which has caused fires at the site, further complicating the situation for residents and businesses alike.

The Kuwait Armed Forces have stated that they intercepted several ballistic missiles and hostile drones that entered the country's airspace. While no civilian deaths have been reported, the debris from missiles and drones has caused material damage at various locations across the country, highlighting the risks posed to civilian life and infrastructure.

In light of these developments, the Kuwaiti government is likely to take additional security measures to protect its airspace and critical infrastructure, which may lead to further flight disruptions in the coming days. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the situation and to remain vigilant regarding their safety and travel plans.