Emirates airline has pulled all flights to Tel Aviv from its schedule, scrapping plans to restart the route next year. This move comes amid ongoing unrest in the Middle East, affecting travel to Israel as of November 2025.
Why Emirates Made This Sudden Change
Emirates launched its Dubai to Tel Aviv service in June 2022, starting with one daily flight on a Boeing 777-300ER. Demand grew fast, leading to three daily flights by 2023 before suspension due to regional conflicts.
The airline had eyed a return in April 2026 with a Boeing 777-200LR, offering 38 business class seats and 264 in economy. But recent updates show all Tel Aviv routes gone from the schedule, as per aviation data trackers.
This decision follows a pattern seen since 2023, when many carriers halted Israel flights after tensions spiked. Analytics show 10.8 percent fewer flights to Israel this year compared to last.
Experts point to safety concerns from the Israel-Iran conflict, which flared up in June 2025 with attacks and retaliations. Airlines like Lufthansa and United also paused services then.
Impact on Travelers and Other Airlines
Passengers booked on Emirates to Tel Aviv now face rerouting or refunds. The airline urges checking its website for updates, with options to switch to partner flights.
Sister carrier Flydubai keeps up to ten daily flights between Dubai and Tel Aviv, providing some relief for UAE-Israel travel.
Other major airlines show mixed responses:
- American Airlines plans to resume New York to Tel Aviv flights in March 2026 after a two-year break.
- British Airways has suspended Tel Aviv routes until March 2025, citing security risks.
- EasyJet halted flights to the city until late March 2025.
These changes highlight broader disruptions, with 17 international airlines pausing Tel Aviv services until various dates in 2025.
Travel demand between UAE and Israel remains strong, with over 300,000 Israelis visiting Dubai in recent years. Yet, ongoing issues like Yemeni missile threats add uncertainty.
Broader Effects on Middle East Aviation
The suspension ties into wider Middle East travel woes from the Israel-Iran clash that ended in a shaky ceasefire in June 2025. Airports across the region saw chaos, with airspace closures and route changes.
Emirates also paused flights to Damascus starting November 15, 2025, shifting focus to other areas. This reflects fleet priorities amid global aviation recovery.
| Airline | Tel Aviv Flight Status | Resumption Date |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | All flights canceled | None planned |
| Flydubai | Up to 10 daily flights | Ongoing |
| American Airlines | Suspended | March 2026 |
| British Airways | Suspended | April 2025 |
| EasyJet | Suspended | March 2025 |
This table shows key players and their current stances, based on latest reports.
Economic ripples include lost tourism revenue for Israel, where visitor numbers dropped sharply. Dubai’s economy, boosted by Israeli travelers post-pandemic, may feel a pinch too.
What This Means for Future Travel
Looking ahead, experts predict more volatility if tensions rise again. Travelers should buy flexible tickets and monitor advisories from governments.
Insurance providers now often exclude conflict zones, so checking coverage is key. Apps and alerts from airlines help stay informed on changes.
For those planning UAE-Israel trips, alternatives like El Al or Turkish Airlines offer options, though with potential delays.
Safety and Geopolitical Context
Safety remains the top reason for these cuts. The 12-day air war between Israel and Iran in June 2025 led to widespread cancellations, with some countries closing airspace.
Recent events, including U.S. strikes and ceasefire uncertainties, keep airlines cautious. Data from aviation bodies shows a 15 percent drop in regional flights this year.
Passengers report frustration but understand the risks. One traveler shared online about rerouting through Europe to reach Tel Aviv safely.
Analysts say full recovery might take until 2027 if peace holds, drawing from past conflicts like the 2023 Gaza war.
Share your thoughts on how these flight changes affect your travel plans. Have you faced cancellations? Comment below and spread the word to help others stay updated.
