Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued guidance for travellers heading to or passing through Dubai International Airport, which has temporarily reduced the number of incoming flights until 4 am on Friday.
An advisory from the embassy stated, “Due to disruptions caused by unprecedented weather conditions in the UAE earlier this week, Dubai International Airport has temporarily restricted the number of incoming flights.”
Dubai airport experienced significant disruption, with over 1,240 flights cancelled and 41 diverted until Thursday morning due to runway flooding from Tuesday’s heavy rainfall. Emirates also announced a suspension of check-in services for all passengers with onward connections through Dubai until 11:59 pm on Friday.
The airline clarified that passengers with connections in Dubai will only be accepted at their departure point if their flight departs after 23:59 GMT, 19 April.
Emirates assured that passengers already in Dubai and transit will be accommodated on their flights, while those travelling to Dubai as their final destination may check-in and travel as usual, albeit with possible delays. The airline advised passengers to check the latest flight status on its website.
The Indian Embassy stressed that while UAE authorities are working tirelessly to restore normal operations, the situation remains unprecedented. Airport authorities recommended that passengers travel to the airport only after receiving final confirmation from their airlines regarding departure details.
To assist Indian nationals at Dubai airport, the Consulate General of India in Dubai has set up emergency helpline numbers, which have been operational since Wednesday.
The 24×7 helpline numbers are: +971501205172, +971569950590, +971507347676, and +971585754213.
Encouraging Indian passengers to reschedule non-essential trips, the embassy advised, “Inbound Indian passengers travelling to or transiting through Dubai International Airport are advised to reschedule non-essential travel until operations return to normal.”
