With a connection in Zurich: Dubai is closed, and Europe becomes the new stop on the way to the East

Flydubai will not return to Israel until at least the end of November, and Israeli airlines have not yet returned to the UAE. The average price for a ticket to Dubai in December stands at $1,185. Those flying to the Far East via Dubai must seek connection alternatives, such as Zurich, Vienna, or Addis Ababa, at prices ranging from $923 to $1,272. Bookings to Dubai have dropped by 65%.

Flydubai announced this week that it will not return to Israel until at least the end of November 2026, and Israeli airlines have not yet returned to the UAE. The result: a limited supply of flights to Dubai, with an average price of $1,185 for a round-trip ticket in December, compared to $400-500 if Israeli flights resume. The impact is broader: those who wanted to fly to the Far East via Dubai must seek alternatives. Direct flights are more expensive than last year – Bangkok at $1,541 with Arkia and $1,611 with El Al, compared to $1,250 last year. However, cheaper connection alternatives exist: Ethiopian Airlines via Abu Dhabi to Bangkok at $1,092, Swiss via Zurich and Vienna at $923, and Lufthansa via Munich at $1,020. Industry sources note that Israelis have not given up on Dubai – searches remain stable, but bookings have dropped by 65% due to the shortage of seats.