Emirates has rebuilt nearly its entire route network following the full reopening of UAE airspace, with 97 per cent of destinations now back online after weeks of disruption – as Middle East carriers move to signal a broader regional recovery.
The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority lifted all temporary airspace restrictions on 2 May 2026, clearing the way for the Dubai-based carrier to resume services across the Americas, Europe, Africa, West Asia, the Middle East, Far East and Australasia.
The airline is currently operating to 137 destinations in 72 countries, with more than 1,300 weekly flights representing 75 per cent of its pre-disruption capacity.
Fellow Gulf carrier Qatar Airways is also rebuilding, with the Doha-based airline set to expand to more than 150 destinations across six continents from 16 June 2026, as part of a phased restoration of its global network first signalled in mid-April.
Despite the reduced schedule, Emirates carried 4.7 million passengers between 1 March and 30 April as travellers continued to route through Dubai to reach their destinations.
With operations now normalising, both carriers are moving to drive forward bookings. Emirates Skywards members will be able to earn Bonus Tier Miles and reach elite status with reduced tier requirements on Emirates and flydubai flights from 8 May through to 31 August 2026.
Qatar Airways is offering complimentary date changes for passengers with confirmed bookings between 28 February and 15 September 2026, with rebooking available on Qatar-operated flights to a new travel date up to 31 October 2026, subject to availability.
Emirates is also offering flexible ticketing, with passengers booked from 2 April entitled to one free date change across all cabin classes and a 24-hour fare hold at no charge.
The airline’s Dubai Connect programme, which converts long layovers into complimentary stopovers – including hotel accommodation, transfers and meals – remains available for transit passengers with connection times of six to 26 hours.
