Travel Update Middle East

News

The situation across the Middle East continues to evolve, with airspace closures and operational changes impacting travel to, from and via key regional hubs.

At Orbit World Travel, we are closely monitoring developments in real time. Our team is in direct contact with airline partners, global networks and on-ground suppliers to ensure our clients receive accurate information and timely support.

Your safety and continuity of travel remain our priority.


Quick links

For the most up-to-date official information, please refer to:

+ Smartraveller Middle East Conflict
+ DFAT Middle East Crisis Hub
+ Emirates Travel Alerts
+ Etihad Airways Travel Alerts
+ Qatar Airways Travel Alerts

Orbit World Travel

We are available 24/7 for support, contact us via your usual corporate phone number and email. If your travel is within the next 72 hours and urgent, please contact us immediately.


What is happening

Military conflict in the Middle East has caused widespread airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions both in the region and globally.

Airline policies relating to waivers, refunds and rebooking are being updated progressively.

Airline impacts

If your itinerary includes transit through Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi or surrounding airspace, your flight may be cancelled, delayed or rerouted, even where your final destination is Europe, the UK, Africa or Asia.

Live updates direct from airlines can be found here:

+ Emirates Travel Alerts
+ Etihad Airways Travel Alerts
+ Qatar Airways Travel Alerts

We recommend checking your airline’s website and your flight status directly before travelling to the airport.


What Orbit is doing

Orbit remains committed to the highest standard of Duty of Care. Our team is:

  • Monitoring all active bookings and prioritising travellers departing within the next 72 hours
  • Liaising directly with airlines to secure rebooking, waivers or refunds
  • Assessing alternative routing options where possible
  • Proactively contacting affected clients as policies are confirmed
  • Supporting urgent travel 24/7 through our After Hours team

We are experiencing a significant increase in calls and email enquiries. To ensure those with imminent travel receive timely support, enquiries are prioritised by departure date.


What you need to do

If you are travelling within 72 hours

  • Check your flight status directly with your airline
  • Do not travel to the airport unless your flight is confirmed as operating
  • Contact your Orbit Travel Advisor immediately
  • For urgent out of hours assistance, call 1800 067 819

If your travel is more than 72 hours away

  • No immediate action is required
  • Please do not cancel flights independently, as voluntary cancellations may impact eligibility under airline waivers
  • We will contact you directly if your booking is affected

Important

This remains a fluid and rapidly changing situation. Further disruptions or extensions to suspensions are possible.

Passenger safety remains the highest priority for airlines and for Orbit. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through disruptions and support all impacted travellers.

If you require assistance, please contact your usual Orbit phone or email, alternatively the office can be reached on:

1800 067 819

We are always here to help our travellers.

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