Kenya Airways Schedules Special Repatriation Flights to Dubai After Airspace Closure

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Kenya Airways will operate special repatriation flights between Nairobi and Dubai on 4 and 5 March 2026 after suspending scheduled services to the United Arab Emirates due to the closure of its airspace.

The airline said it had received approval from Dubai Airport Management to run limited flights strictly for repatriation. A Boeing 737-800 that had previously been grounded has been returned to service for the operation. The aircraft will depart Nairobi on 4 March and return from Dubai on 5 March.

Kenya Airways stressed that these flights are not part of its regular schedule. They are intended to assist UAE citizens and residents stranded in Nairobi, as well as Kenyan nationals and residents in Dubai who wish to return home.

Passengers have been advised not to travel to the airport until they receive direct confirmation of their departure details. The airline said updates would be issued through its website and customer support channels, including phone, WhatsApp and social media.

The repatriation plan follows the suspension of all scheduled services to Dubai on 28 February 2026. The decision affected four passenger flights and cargo operations. Kenya Airways cited escalating regional tensions and the closure of UAE airspace. Other major carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways, also halted services while awaiting further clarity on the security situation.

Kenya’s government has acknowledged the broader implications of the Middle East conflict. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei advised Kenyans in the region to exercise caution. Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui warned of possible disruption to Kenya’s export trade.

Flowers, vegetables, tea, coffee and meat are among Kenya’s main exports to the Middle East. Any interruption to air transport could affect the timely delivery of perishable goods.

Kenya Airways said regular services to Dubai will resume only after full clearance is granted by UAE authorities. Until then, travellers and exporters remain reliant on temporary arrangements.