BREAKING: Emirates Suspends All Dubai Flights Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Emirates Airline has suspended all flights to and from Dubai until further notice, citing safety concerns as tensions escalate across the Middle East.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Dubai-based carrier said the suspension was implemented to protect passengers and crew, noting that the regional security situation remains fluid.

Travellers have been advised not to proceed to the airport while the suspension is in effect, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

The move comes amid rising conflict and missile activity in parts of the region, which has prompted several countries to close or restrict their airspace, causing widespread disruption to both regional and international travel.

Airlines operating in the Gulf have been adjusting flight routes and cancelling services due to safety risks.

Dubai, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, sees thousands of Emirates flights each week connecting six continents. The sudden halt has disrupted travel plans for passengers both in transit and flying to or from the emirate.

Emirates has advised affected travellers to monitor official updates and contact the airline for rebooking or refund options. Authorities say operations will resume once conditions are deemed safe.

The suspension follows reports of a powerful explosion at Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran, Iran.

Eyewitnesses described multiple loud blasts in western Tehran early Saturday, with flames and thick smoke rising from areas around the airport. Videos circulating on social media showed fires on parts of the tarmac, while air-defence systems were reportedly activated across the capital.

Reports indicate aircraft on the ground were damaged, though the full extent of the destruction and potential casualties remains unclear.

Iranian media confirmed a major explosion in the western part of Tehran, and residents reported a series of deafening blasts throughout the city. Israeli officials stated they carried out broad attacks on what they described as high-priority targets in the capital.

Mehrabad Airport, a major hub for both civilian and military flights, has previously been targeted amid the ongoing conflict, underscoring the heightened security risks in the region.