Dubai Airports announced the limited resumption of flights from Sunday evening, March 2, after widespread regional airspace closures disrupted travel across the Gulf.

In a statement, the operator confirmed that a restricted number of flights would operate from Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport.

Passengers have been instructed not to travel to either airport until their respective airlines directly confirm departure times.

Authorities urged travellers to stay in close contact with airlines for updates.

The disruption left more than 20,000 passengers stranded after large-scale flight cancellations linked to Gulf airspace restrictions.

The UAE government has stepped in to cover accommodation and meal expenses for affected travellers.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi directed all hotels in the emirate to extend stays for guests unable to depart and bill the government.

Dubai authorities issued similar instructions hours later.

The GCAA confirmed that the state is covering lodging and food costs for impacted passengers.

Private companies have also joined relief efforts.

Dubai-based holiday rental firms opened apartments free of charge, while more than 250 hosts offered complimentary stays within hours.

Officials said coordinated efforts are underway to clear the backlog as flight operations gradually resume.