Reuters: Dubai has restricted foreign airlines to just one daily flight to its airports until May 31 due to the Iran crisis, raising concerns of revenue losses among Indian carriers that had scheduled more flights than airlines from any other country.
The Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), representing IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet, has urged the Indian government to push Dubai authorities to lift the curbs or consider reciprocal measures against Dubai-based airlines, including Emirates and flydubai. Indian airlines are already under financial strain due to higher fuel costs and longer routes to Western destinations after being barred from using Pakistani airspace.
According to a March 27 email, Dubai Airports said foreign carriers would be limited to one daily round trip to Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport between April 20 and May 31. Additional slots may be allocated if capacity allows. The FIA stated that the restrictions do not apply to UAE carriers like Emirates and flydubai, creating an uneven playing field and potential “substantial” revenue losses.
India was the largest source of passengers for Dubai’s main airport in 2025, with 11.9 million travellers.Flight schedule data shows Air India Express and Air India had planned over 750 flights to Dubai during April and May, while IndiGo had 481. Saudia and Gulf Air had also scheduled significant operations.
Under the new cap, each foreign airline would be limited to around 30–31 flights per month, compared to the hundreds operated by Emirates and flydubai. IndiGo said the restrictions have “significantly constrained” its operations, leaving much of its capacity underutilised.
Meanwhile, airlines such as Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways have suspended flights to Dubai until at least May 31 and are increasing non-stop Asia-Europe routes to meet rising demand.
