KQ announces repatriation flights to and from Dubai

In a customer update issued on March 4, 2026, the move follows the guidance by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities on the resumption of limited operations at Dubai Airport on March 2, 2026, with a small number of flights permitted to operate from Dubai International Airport. 

The operation is, however, strictly for repatriation purposes.

"These are not regular scheduled flights, rather repatriation flights for Customers who are citizens or have residency in the UAE to be able to travel out of Nairobi and Vice Versa," the statement read in part. 

"We request our customers in Dubai not to proceed to DXB Airport until we have communicated a confirmed departure date and time."

Travellers were also advised to check their flight status on the Kenya Airways official website and update their contact details through the Manage Booking option to enable the airline to reach out to them for further guidance. 

"We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding. The safety of our crew and customers remains our highest priority, and we will communicate directly with affected customers to provide the necessary assistance."

KQ, however, reiterated that it had not resumed scheduled operations to Dubai but assured the public to provide updates as soon as they get approvals from the UAE Authorities.

The statement comes as KQ temporarily suspended all flights to Dubai on February 28, 2026, following the closure of the UAE airspace.

The disruption emanated from escalating regional tensions between United States, Israel and Iran.

On February 28, 2026, the US and Israel launched missile strikes against Iran, leading to the deaths of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and senior officials. 

Despite ongoing negotiations with the United States over its nuclear programme, Iran vowed a harsh response and began carrying out retaliatory strikes targeting Israel, as well as several Gulf nations hosting US military assets, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain.