UAE and Qatar to cover hotel and meal costs for those stranded in country during Iran attacks
UAE and Qatar to Cover Hotel and Meal Costs for Stranded Passengers Amid Iran Attacks
Following Iran’s recent strikes, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have announced measures to assist travelers impacted by airspace restrictions. The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) declared on 1 March that the government will “cover all hosting and accommodation expenses for affected individuals.” This follows Qatar Tourism’s directive issued two days earlier, urging hotels to accommodate stranded guests at no cost.
Stranded Travelers to Stay Without Financial Burden
A circular from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) instructed hotels to extend stays for passengers unable to leave.
“In light of current conditions, guests who have reached their check-out date but cannot depart due to unforeseen circumstances will have their extended stay costs covered,”
the document stated. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) also provided similar guidance, allowing hotels to offer stay extensions under the same terms as original bookings.
Travel Disruptions Across the Region
Approximately 20,200 passengers have been affected by flight cancellations and rescheduling in the UAE. In Qatar, Hamad International Airport halted all operations, with travelers advised to avoid the facility. Qatar Airways promised an update by 4 March. Meanwhile, Kuwait closed its airspace after a drone strike damaged Terminal One on 28 February, injuring nine staff. The Public Authority for Civil Aviation noted that repairs are underway to resume services soon.
Flight Schedules and Passenger Advisories
Etihad Airways suspended flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 4 March at 2 pm local time (12 pm CET), while Emirates extended its closure to 3 March at 3 pm (1 pm CET). Airlines are reaching out to passengers for details, with those not contacted urged to stay home. Oman Air canceled routes to Amman, Dubai, and other destinations until 7 March, and Saudia delayed flights to Amman, Kuwait, and elsewhere until 4 March at 11:59 pm (9:59 pm CET).