Travellers flying from the UAE to India must now complete the mandatory Air Suvidha 2.0 health self-declaration before boarding their flights. The new requirement comes as airlines across the Gulf continue to monitor regional security developments and adjust flight schedules where necessary.
The updated Air Suvidha system has been introduced following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of the Ebola/Bundibugyo outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Passengers travelling from the UAE to India can submit the online Self-Declaration Form up to 24 hours before arrival. Once completed, travellers only need to present the downloaded confirmation at the health desk or immigration counter, with no additional paperwork required.
Meanwhile, flight operations in parts of Saudi Arabia have been affected after Abha International Airport witnessed disruptions linked to missile and drone attacks. Several domestic and international departures, including services to Dubai, Sharjah, Riyadh and Jeddah, were cancelled over two consecutive days. Airlines including Saudia, flyadeal, flydubai, and Air Arabia were among those impacted.
In response to the evolving security situation, several countries have updated their travel advisories. The United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States continue to caution travellers about visiting areas near Saudi Arabia’s border with Yemen, citing the possibility of renewed security threats despite ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
Despite these isolated disruptions, most major Gulf carriers continue to operate normally. Emirates and Etihad Airways have reported stable operations, while flydubai has advised passengers to check in online and arrive at Dubai International Airport at least four hours before departure due to heavy summer travel demand. Air Arabia and Qatar Airways also continue to operate extensive regional and international networks.
Indian carriers have also issued travel updates. Air India and Air India Express said their Gulf services are operating as scheduled, although changing airspace conditions could still result in occasional delays. Air India Express recently launched its first direct service between Navi Mumbai and Abu Dhabi. IndiGo continues to operate its Gulf network but has temporarily suspended flights to several Asian destinations, including Langkawi, Krabi, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap until September 30, while Manchester services remain suspended until August 31.
Several international airlines, however, continue to suspend or reduce services to parts of the Middle East due to security concerns. Travellers are strongly advised to verify their flight status with their respective airlines before leaving for the airport, as schedules may change depending on the evolving regional situation.
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