Major Flight Disruptions: Nearly 20 Dubai-Iran Services Cancelled Amid Unrest
Dubai-Iran air travel faced significant disruptions on Friday, January 9, 2026, with nearly 20 scheduled flights cancelled, according to official data from Dubai Airports. The cancellations primarily affected routes to major Iranian cities including Tehran, Shiraz, and Mashhad, causing widespread inconvenience for travelers.
Flydubai Leads Cancellations, Other Airlines Follow
The bulk of the cancellations were operated by flydubai, the Dubai-based low-cost carrier that maintains an extensive network between the UAE and Iran. The airline confirmed it had cancelled all its scheduled flights to Iran for the day, advising affected passengers to contact its call center or visit ticket offices for rebooking or refunds.
The disruption was not isolated to flydubai. Other carriers also suspended services:
Turkish Airlines cancelled up to 17 flights to Iranian destinations.
Ajet and Pegasus Airlines grounded several services.
Qatar Airways cancelled at least two flights between Doha and Tehran.
Linking Disruptions to Iran’s Internal Unrest
The flight cancellations coincide with a period of widespread civil unrest and a nationwide internet blackout in Iran. Since late December 2025, the country has experienced protests driven by severe economic challenges, including soaring inflation and currency devaluation.
The government-imposed internet shutdown, which began on January 8, is a critical factor. The blackout disrupts essential aviation communications, including air traffic coordination, flight information systems, and passenger notifications, creating an unpredictable and potentially unsafe operational environment for airlines.
Passenger Impact and Travel Advisory
The sudden cancellations have left passengers stranded or facing major itinerary changes. Airlines are managing rebookings on a case-by-case basis.
Travelers are strongly advised to:
Check their flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport.
Monitor official airline websites, apps, and customer service channels for real-time updates.
Expect continued potential for schedule adjustments until the situation in Iran stabilizes.
Also Read: UAE School Entry Age Change: What Dubai Parents Need to Know for 2026-27
Broader Implications for Regional Aviation
This incident underscores the vulnerability of regional air travel to geopolitical and infrastructural shocks. Routes between major hubs like Dubai and neighboring nations are particularly sensitive to sudden ground condition changes, demonstrating how quickly disruptions can cascade across multiple airlines and international schedules.
While operations are expected to normalize once stability returns, the events of January 9 highlight the complex interplay between aviation logistics and regional politics. Passengers planning travel between the UAE and Iran in the coming days should proceed with caution and stay informed.
