Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following military exchanges between Israel and Iran, Emirates has announced the resumption of its Dubai–Lagos–Dubai flight operations.
The airline confirmed on Friday, March 6, 2026, that it would restart services after suspending flights last week due to widespread airspace disruptions triggered by the ongoing conflict in the region. Sources familiar with the airline’s operations said that the resumption primarily aims to return stranded Nigerians in the UAE to their home country.
Several Middle Eastern carriers had previously halted operations after multiple countries closed their airspace in response to coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets. US President Donald Trump described the attacks as a major combat operation, forcing airlines worldwide to reroute long-haul flights passing through the region.
The disruption affected air routes connecting Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America, with airlines scrambling to adjust schedules amid safety concerns. Missiles launched from Israel toward Iran, followed by retaliatory strikes, made certain airspace corridors unsafe for commercial travel.
Emirates said it had been closely monitoring developments and liaising with relevant aviation authorities to determine when operations could safely resume. Passengers were advised to check travel updates and flight status pages regularly before heading to the airport.
In a communication to its trade partners in Nigeria, the airline confirmed the return of its Lagos operations, stating: “We will be operating the Dubai–Lagos–Dubai flight (EK783 & EK784) on 6th March 2026.” The carrier noted that the resumption provides travellers with an opportunity to continue their plans after days of uncertainty caused by the regional crisis.
The airline also urged passengers to secure seats promptly, anticipating a surge in demand. “The flight resumption presents a unique opportunity for customers to travel. Emirates continues to monitor the situation and will develop its operational schedule accordingly. The latest flight updates will be published on our website,” the statement read.
Industry analysts noted that the resumption is crucial for both business and leisure travellers, particularly Nigerians who were stranded abroad, and highlights the importance of flexible operations during geopolitical disruptions.
