Emirates and Etihad will temporarily suspend all passenger services from March 25 for an initial period of two weeks.
Photo: Emirates
In accordance with a new directive from the government to curb the coronavirus spread, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be banning all passenger flights to and from the country for two weeks starting March 25. Its strict immigration policies include the banning of nationals from leaving the country, banning of visa holder residents from entering the country, and suspending the issuance of all visas.
Along with these new travel restrictions, airlines Emirates and Etihad will temporarily suspend all passenger services from March 25 for an initial period of two weeks. Due to high call volumes, passengers are advised not to call and cancel their bookings—instead, no-show fees will not be charged. To rebook their flight at a later date, travelers can complete a travel voucher request form here.
The rebooking of flights applies to customers with tickets issued on/before March 31 who have been impacted by travel bans, government advisory against non-essential travel, quarantine requirements, mandatory lockdowns, as well as flight cancellations.
In addition, Etihad will also suspend flights to, from and via Abu Dhabi. Travelers will be informed if their flights have been canceled.
Meanwhile, both carriers are waiving change fees for customers rebooking flights for travel on or before 30 June 2020.
More information here and here.
