DUBAI, Apr 01 (V7N) — Major UAE-based carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and flydubai, have updated their travel protocols to restrict Iranian nationals from entering or transiting through the United Arab Emirates. The policy change, which appeared on airline websites on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, comes amid a significant escalation in regional military tensions.

While the messaging across different platforms initially caused some confusion, a coordinated pattern has emerged regarding who is still permitted to travel.

The New Travel Restrictions

The restriction applies broadly to all Iranian passport holders, including those with standard residency, tourist, or visit visas.

  • Emirates & Etihad: Notices on their official portals state that Iranian citizens are currently prohibited from both entry and transit.

  • flydubai: The low-cost carrier’s website explicitly confirms the ban but provides a critical exception for those integrated into the UAE's long-term residency framework.

Key Exemptions: The Golden Visa Factor

Despite the general ban, certain categories of Iranian nationals remain eligible to fly into or through the UAE:

  • Golden Visa Holders: Iranians possessing the 10-year "Golden Visa" are exempt from the restriction and may continue to enter and transit the country.

  • Family Ties: Spouses of UAE nationals and children of Emirati mothers are reportedly still permitted entry.

  • Specialized Professionals: Some reports indicate that high-level professionals—such as doctors, engineers, investors, and bank executives—may be granted clearance, though travellers are urged to verify this with their airline before booking.

Context: Rising Regional Hostilities

This drastic shift in aviation policy follows a series of direct security threats to the UAE. On Sunday, March 29, the UAE Ministry of Defence reported the successful interception of 16 ballistic missiles and 42 drones launched from Iran.

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) recently claimed responsibility for targeting industrial sites in the region, including aluminium plants in the UAE and Bahrain, alleging they support U.S. military interests. In response to these "blatant aggressions," the UAE has not only tightened its borders but also reportedly suspended operations at several Iran-linked institutions, including the Iranian Hospital and the Iranian Club in Dubai.

Current Status for Travellers

As of today, many Iranian nationals currently abroad—including long-term residents without Golden Visas—are reportedly being denied re-entry. With the U.S.-Israel military campaign against Iran entering its second month and President Donald Trump hinting at a potential (though unresolved) conclusion to the conflict, travel regulations remain highly volatile.

Travellers are advised to monitor airline "Visa and Passport" information pages directly, as no formal government statement has been issued to consolidate these rules.

END/SMA/AJ