UAE to fund extended hotel stays for stranded Abu Dhabi tourists
The United Arab Emirates has announced it will cover the cost of extended hotel accommodation for tourists unable to leave Abu Dhabi due to widespread flight disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
In a directive issued on Saturday, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi instructed hotels to extend the stay of guests whose flights were cancelled or delayed beyond their control.
The circular noted that some visitors had reached their checkout dates but were unable to travel due to airspace closures and operational changes. Hotels were asked to allow affected guests to remain until departure arrangements are confirmed.
Authorities clarified that neither travellers nor hotel operators would bear the additional financial burden. The department said it would cover the cost of the extended stays and directed hotels to submit invoices to a designated contact.
The move follows significant disruptions across the UAE’s aviation sector as hostilities in the Middle East continue to affect regional airspace. The General Civil Aviation Authority said airports and national carriers have managed about 20,200 passengers impacted by recent flight changes, providing temporary accommodation, meals, refreshments, and rebooking assistance.
Major airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi were among those affected, with airlines suspending or rerouting flights amid heightened security concerns.
Authorities said coordination among airports, airlines, and government agencies remains ongoing to monitor flight schedules and ensure a safe and orderly resumption of services. Measures include rerouting flights, accelerating rescheduling, and improving passenger management within terminals to ease congestion.
The UAE government urged travellers to rely on official channels for updates and to contact their airlines directly regarding travel plans, reaffirming its commitment to restoring normal operations as conditions permit.
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