Travelers heading to or from the Middle East are being advised to stay alert as regional tensions continue to affect flights, schools, and airport operations. Thai authorities and aviation officials have issued updates to ensure passenger safety and preparedness.
Here’s what you need to know.
Thailand Reviews Evacuation Plans for 110,000 Nationals in the Middle East
On 1 March 2026, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs convened a high-level meeting led by Sihasak Phuangketkeow to assess the evolving situation in the Middle East and review contingency plans for Thai citizens in the region.
Approximately 110,000 Thai nationals are currently residing across Middle Eastern countries. As of the latest briefing, there have been no reports of injuries involving Thai nationals.
All Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General in the region have issued advisories encouraging citizens to:
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Closely monitor local news and official announcements
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Follow guidance from Thai diplomatic missions
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Register with embassies if they wish to return to Thailand
Evacuation plans are in place should conditions worsen. These may involve coordination with host governments and international partners. Officials say the situation is under constant review, with response measures ready to be activated if necessary.
108 Flights Cancelled at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Thailand’s main gateway, Suvarnabhumi Airport, confirmed widespread disruptions linked to Middle East developments.
As of 2 March 2026 (2:00 P.M.), the airport reported:
47 Flights Cancelled (28 Feb – 2 Mar update)
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24 departing flights
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23 arriving flights
108 Total Cancellations (28 Feb – 2 Mar cumulative)
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58 departing flights
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50 arriving flights
Affected airlines include:
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Emirates
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Qatar Airways
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Etihad Airways
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Air Arabia
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Gulf Air
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Kuwait Airways
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EL AL Israel Airlines
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World2fly
Airport authorities confirmed that no departing passengers are currently stranded, as airlines have proactively contacted affected travelers. Staff remain on standby to assist, and complimentary water stations have been set up for passengers waiting to rearrange flights.
Travelers flying to the Middle East or nearby destinations are strongly advised to check flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport.
For airport-related inquiries, passengers can contact the Airports of Thailand (AOT) Contact Center at 1722, available 24 hours daily.
UAE Closes Airspace, Shifts Schools to Distance Learning
The United Arab Emirates has temporarily closed its airspace, resulting in the suspension of all inbound and outbound commercial flights.
In response, the country’s Ministry of Education announced that all public and private schools, along with universities, will shift to remote learning from 2–4 March 2026. Authorities indicated that the arrangement may be extended depending on regional developments.
In Dubai, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority confirmed that private educational institutions in the emirate will also adopt distance learning during this period.
Officials emphasized that the move is precautionary, prioritizing student and staff safety.
UAE to Cover Accommodation for Stranded Travelers
In a significant move to support visitors, the General Civil Aviation Authority announced that the UAE will shoulder accommodation costs for passengers stranded due to the temporary airspace closure.
National carriers such as Emirates and Etihad, together with major hubs including Dubai International Airport (DXB), have reportedly assisted more than 20,000 passengers affected by recent flight rescheduling.
Support measures include:
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Temporary hotel accommodation
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Meals and refreshments
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Rebooking assistance
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Domestic transport for affected travelers
Authorities say coordination between airlines and airports remains ongoing to ensure an orderly resumption of operations once conditions stabilize.
What Travelers Should Do Now
If you are traveling to or transiting through the Middle East:
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Check flight status directly with your airline
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Monitor official government advisories
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Allow extra time for rebooking or travel adjustments
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Avoid relying on unverified social media updates
While no Thai nationals have been reported harmed, the situation remains fluid. For travelers and residents alike, staying informed through official channels is key.
We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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