Israeli planes returned to Dubai - what has changed

Israeli airlines Arkia and Israir have resumed flights to Dubai for the first time in eight months, bringing hundreds of Israelis who could not fly home on their own. The first Israir flight carried about 180 people. The resumption followed days of negotiations and cancellations. For now, these are special flights, not a full restoration of regular service. Passengers returned without luggage, which is being transported on a separate plane.

Israeli airlines Arkia and Israir have resumed flights to Dubai for the first time in eight months. The first flights brought hundreds of Israelis who could not leave the United Arab Emirates on their own. The first Israir plane landed in Israel overnight with about 180 passengers on board. The resumption of flights followed several days of negotiations, cancellations, and last-minute changes. For now, these are special flights to bring Israelis back, not a full restoration of regular air service. Arkia reported that its last flight to the UAE was on February 26, 2026. Passengers had to return without luggage — Israir sent a separate plane to transport the remaining belongings. A similar arrangement is expected for subsequent flights. Arkia has already scheduled additional flights from Dubai for October 5–12, with two departures planned for October 10. Tickets are on sale. Israir also plans to continue special flights in the coming days to pick up Israelis still in the UAE.