UAE to cover accommodation costs for stranded tourists

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has pledged to cover the accommodation costs of tourists stranded across the region amid ongoing airspace closures.

Aspire’s Dubai-based sister title Connecting Travel reported Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism was the latest authority to step in with assistance.

Connecting Travel reported the tourism authority issued a directive to hotels instructing managers to extend guest stays for travellers unable to depart amid the regional disruption. DCT Abu Dhabi confirmed it will cover the additional accommodation costs, requesting hoteliers to submit invoices directly to the department for processing.

DCT Abu Dhabi said: “In light of current circumstances and given that some guests have reached their checkout date but are unable to travel for reasons beyond their control, we kindly requested to extend their stay until they are able to depart.

“The cost of the extended stay will be covered by DCT Abu Dhabi."

The announcement follows a statement from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Sunday, 1 March, confirming that the UAE government would cover all expenses for passengers affected by ongoing flight cancellations, rerouting and schedule changes.

To date, more than 20,200 passengers have received assistance including accommodation, meals and logistical support. 

“Temporary accommodation has been provided, along with meals and refreshments, in addition to facilitating rebooking procedures in line with the approved operational plans,” GCAA said.

Operations at UAE airports, including Dubai International Airport – the world’s busiest – were suspended on Saturday afternoon after US-Israel strikes on Iran triggered retaliatory missile activity across the region. Airspace closures remain in effect across the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain.

The disruption comes during peak travel season, with the UAE’s leisure tourism segment among the most affected. Despite the temporary shutdown, authorities reported that the situation remained stable on the ground.