Weather Disrupts Dubai International Airport Operations
Dubai International Airport has announced that it is temporarily diverting all arriving flights as extreme weather continues to batter the UAE.
Severe Weather Impacting Travel
On April 16, heavy rainfall across the country caused major flooding and extensive travel disruption. Dubai International Airport (DXB) experienced submerged runways and blocked access roads, leading to significant delays.
Flight Operations Suspended
DXB, one of the world’s busiest airports, temporarily suspended operations on April 16 for 25 minutes. This disruption created challenges for thousands of travellers as flights were delayed and cancellations were announced.
“Due to the intense storm, operations at DXB were temporarily suspended for 25 minutes but have since recommenced,” stated the official account for Dubai Airport on social media. “There is major flooding on roads leading to the airport and forecasts indicate that unsettled weather will continue until tomorrow morning.”
Continuing Flight Diversions
However, following another intense rain period, all arriving flights were temporarily suspended. “We are temporarily diverting arriving flights this evening until the weather conditions improve,” the airport communicated via social media. Departures will still operate as teams work to restore normal operations.
Flight Cancellations and Impacts
Earlier, it was confirmed that 17 flights—nine outbound and eight inbound—had been cancelled, while three flights were diverted to nearby airports. Videos circulating on social media depicted flyDubai planes landing on submerged runways at DXB.
Safety Precautions and Recommendations
The UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority issued a safety alert for citizens to leave their homes only in “extreme necessity.” Consequently, schools across the nation closed, and remote workers were instructed to remain home.
Remote working and learning have been extended to April 17, as forecasts predict further heavy downpours overnight. Travellers heading to Dubai International Airport are urged to utilize the Metro service, which has extended hours until 3 AM on Wednesday morning. Passengers are advised to allow ample extra time for their journeys.
Live Flight Updates
Dubai Airport’s live flight tracker currently indicates that many flights on the evening of April 16 are delayed or cancelled, with the impacts expected to linger into April 17.
This story will continue to be updated with new information.
