All Dhaka–Middle East Flights Temporarily Suspended

In the wake of escalating US-Israel airstrikes on Iran and subsequent missile exchanges in the Gulf region, all flights from Dhaka to the Middle East have been temporarily suspended. Airports in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have been reporting heightened security alerts following multiple explosions, prompting authorities in Bangladesh to take precautionary measures.

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport officials confirmed on Saturday (28 February) that operations to key Middle Eastern destinations have been halted until further notice. Passengers booked on these routes have been advised to monitor updates closely and avoid travelling unless necessary.

Bosra Islam, General Manager (Public Relations) of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, stated, “Due to ongoing missile attacks and regional instability in the Gulf, all our flights from Dhaka to the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have been suspended. Passenger safety is our top priority, and we are coordinating with relevant authorities to determine when flights can resume safely.”

Meanwhile, Kamrul Islam, General Manager (Public Relations) of US-Bangla Airlines, told Kalbela, “We are actively monitoring the situation. All flights bound for Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam have been temporarily suspended. As of Saturday afternoon, none of our aircraft operating on these Middle Eastern routes are in the air; all are stationed safely at the respective airports.”

The suspension affects both direct and connecting flights, and passengers are being encouraged to contact their airline for assistance, rescheduling, or refunds. Airlines have also indicated that contingency plans are being prepared, including alternative routing and priority handling for stranded travellers.

The following table summarises the affected flights from Dhaka to the Middle East:

Aviation experts note that suspending flights to conflict zones is a standard safety protocol. The Gulf region has witnessed increased military activity following retaliatory strikes and missile launches, raising the risk to commercial air traffic. The Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority is in constant communication with airlines to ensure passenger safety while evaluating options to resume services once the situation stabilises.

Authorities urge travellers to check official airline communications and avoid the affected routes until further notice. Both Biman Bangladesh Airlines and US-Bangla Airlines have reassured passengers that they will provide timely updates and assistance regarding ticket changes, cancellations, and rescheduling.