UAE airports boost capacity as winter travel season approaches

Last updated: October 27, 2026 | 10:34

UAE airports boost capacity for winter travel, but flight delays and cancellations persist. Check your airline for the latest updates before heading out. Photo: James Martinez/Gulf News

Planning to travel from the UAE this winter? More flight options could be on the way as UAE airports ramp up capacity, with departing seats rising 23 per cent to 7.2 million between June and October. Dubai is leading the expansion, with Emirates and flydubai boosting capacity and up to 36 weekly flights between Dubai and Europe expected to return by December.

However, flight disruptions continue to affect UAE travellers. Etihad Airways has extended cancellations on services between Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia until November 5, while several arrivals at Dubai International Airport have been cancelled or delayed.…