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DubaiLiving

by Barbara Yakimchuk

Current Restrictions And Operational Updates In the UAE

2 Mar 2026

Photo: Getty Images

Over the past three days, life in the UAE has felt somewhat different from usual. Here is a brief update on the latest restrictions and measures you may have missed, along with the current status of operations at key facilities across the country.

Stay safe.

Disclaimer: As the situation continues to evolve, please refer to official websites for the most up-to-date information.

Air travel update

  • At the moment, UAE airspace remains officially closed. Authorities are covering expenses for passengers affected by cancellations, including temporary accommodation, meals and assistance with rebooking.
  • In line with this, Emirates, flydubai and Air Arabia have extended their flight cancellations through to Tuesday, March 3 at 3 pm.
  • Etihad Airways has confirmed that, due to regional airspace closures, all flights to and from Abu Dhabi remain suspended until 2 pm UAE time on Tuesday, March 3.
  • For those currently in Oman, Muscat International Airport hasn't been officially declared fully closed. However, restrictions, cancellations and schedule changes remain in place due to security measures and neighbouring airspace closures.

Land borders

  • Oman border: The Hatta – Al Wajajah land crossing between the UAE and Oman remains open. However, traffic is moving slowly due to heightened security checks and transit prioritisation.
  • Saudi border: The land border with Saudi Arabia remains open. Entry into Saudi Arabia requires a valid visa and full compliance with Saudi border procedures.

Malls & deliveries

  • At the moment, business activity across the UAE is continuing as usual. There has been no official nationwide directive from federal authorities ordering the closure of malls or restaurants.
  • Certain venues in specific locations — particularly in tourist or higher-risk areas — have temporarily closed as a precautionary measure amid heightened alerts. These decisions are taken locally and don't reflect a federal shutdown.
  • Delivery services across the UAE are also operating normally. No widespread cancellations have been reported, though delays may occur.

Some residents have received official messages from the Ministry of Interior confirming that the situation remains safe. Those who received the notification are permitted to resume normal activities while continuing to exercise caution. Overall, residents are advised to remain vigilant in public places due to potential risks.

Work & offices

  • The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has advised private sector employers to implement remote working arrangements where possible. The aim is to minimise movement in open areas and enhance safety amid ongoing regional tensions.
  • The advisory is currently in place from Sunday, March 1 to Tuesday, March 3 2026, and may be extended depending on developments.
  • The DIFC Authority has also confirmed that its staff and operations will shift to remote work as a precaution from Monday, March 2 to Wednesday, March 4 2026.

Schools & universities

  • All UAE schools and higher education institutions have moved to online learning from Monday, March 2 to Wednesday, March 4 2026. The directive was announced by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
  • School transport, after-school activities and on-campus programmes are suspended during this remote-learning period.

Road restrictions

  • There are no official nationwide movement restrictions or curfews announced by UAE federal authorities.

People are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and follow safety instructions during alerts.

Important emergency numbers

  • Police: 999
  • Ambulance: 998
  • Fire service: 997
  • General emergencies: 999

Mental health support

  • Medico Arabia: +971 56 900 5443
  • Department of Health – Abu Dhabi: 800 725 462
  • LifeWorks Counselling & Mental Health: +971 54 400 2698