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ISLAMABAD – June 23, 2025: In a coordinated response to rising security threats, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, and Bahrain have completely closed their airspace to all commercial flights. The unprecedented move follows Iran’s missile attacks on U.S. military bases in Qatar, Iraq, and Kuwait, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict.
Authorities across the Gulf declared the closures as a precautionary measure aimed at protecting civilian flights from potential aerial threats. The action has caused widespread disruption in international air travel, especially for flights operating over or through the Middle East.
Regional Airports on Emergency Alert
Saudi Arabia has placed all key airports—Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah—on emergency footing. Passengers are advised to confirm flight statuses before traveling.
Read More: U.S. State Department Issues Security Alerts for UAE, Lebanon, Turkey & Saudi Arabia
The UAE has implemented emergency protocols at Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport, suspending flights to Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. National carriers including Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai have been significantly impacted.
Kuwait is also facing major disruption. Jazeera Airways has suspended Iran-bound routes, while Kuwait International Airport is reporting widespread delays and cancellations. In Bahrain, flights to Baghdad, Najaf, and Amman have been suspended, with Gulf Air extending route cancellations until further notice.
Global Aviation Impact
International carriers such as Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines are diverting flights through Egypt, Turkey, and Central Asia, resulting in longer flight times, higher fuel costs, and schedule changes.
Passenger Advisory
Passengers are urged to stay updated via official airline channels, remain flexible in travel planning, and avoid unnecessary transit through affected regions. Gulf governments continue to monitor the evolving situation while calling for diplomatic restraint to prevent further escalation.
