In response to ongoing volatility in the region, the Cathay Group has temporarily halted all operations in the Middle East. The decision impacts both freighter and passenger services, creating immediate routing changes for airfreight and travelers moving through the area.
The operational pause directly affects primary aviation hubs across the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Cathay has outlined the following specific closures:
Freighter Services: All dedicated cargo operations to and from Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Dubai are suspended.
Passenger Services: Flights servicing Dubai and Riyadh are fully suspended. This measure took effect on February 28, 2026, and is currently scheduled to run through May 31, 2026.
To maintain crew and cargo safety while ensuring network continuity, Cathay is actively rerouting all flights that typically transit through the affected Middle Eastern airspace.
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The aviation group stated it is monitoring the situation closely. Forwarders and shippers should remain prepared for further adjustments, as operational statuses and routing protocols may change at short notice based on regional developments.