Emirates has advised passengers not to travel to Dubai International Airport after flight operations were temporarily suspended following a security incident amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. 

In a post on X, the airline said all flights to and from Dubai had been halted and urged travellers to stay away from the airport. “All flights to and from Dubai have been temporarily suspended. Please do not go to the airport,” the airline said. 

Passengers have been advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules, with further information expected through official channels as the situation develops. 

Passenger safety remains its top priority: Emirates 

Emirates said passenger safety remains its top priority. “Emirates will share updates when available. We would like to thank our customers for their understanding and patience. The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority and will not be compromised,” the airline added. 

Local authorities in Dubai said flight operations were suspended after a drone struck a fuel tank at the airport, triggering a fire and forcing an immediate shutdown of air traffic. The incident comes at a time when the Middle East is already facing heightened geopolitical tensions that have begun to disrupt regional aviation operations. 

Kochi–Dubai Emirates flight diverted 

Meanwhile, an Emirates flight operating from Cochin International Airport to Dubai was forced to return to Kerala following the sudden closure of the airport. 

According to airport officials, flight EK533 departed Kochi at 4.30 am with 325 passengers on board. Midway through the journey, the aircraft was instructed to turn back and later landed safely in Kochi at 8.30 am. 

“Passengers are advised to remain on board while the situation at DXB is reviewed. If the airport resumes operations, the return service will continue,” a spokesperson for Cochin International Airport said. 

Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and will decide on further steps based on safety evaluations, the spokesperson added.