Dubai Airports diverts inbound flights, RTA suspends intercity bus service

Dubai International Airport (DXB) announced the temporary diversion of inbound flights scheduled to arrive on Tuesday evening due to the ongoing inclement weather conditions.

However, departures from the airport will continue to operate as scheduled.

Dubai Airports issues statement

We are temporarily diverting arriving flights this evening until the weather conditions improve. Departures will continue to operate.

Together with our partners, we’re working to restore normal operations and minimise inconvenience to you.

Follow @DXB for further updates.

— DXB (@DXB) April 16, 2024

The airport urged passengers to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight information and advised allowing extra travel time to the airport.

It encouraged passengers to utilise the Dubai metro for smoother transit, with extended operating hours.

Response teams have been activated to address the flooding on access roads around Dubai leading to the airport.

Impact of weather conditions

Videos shared on social media platforms depicted flooded runways at the airport following heavy rains that began early Tuesday morning.

Access roads around Dubai leading to the airport experienced major flooding, causing delays and disruption to travel.

Highlighting the on-site efforts of @DubaiPoliceHQ teams amidst the current weather conditions. pic.twitter.com/ES7aehf7SE

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 16, 2024

Unsettled weather forecasts indicate the potential for continued delays and disruption into the early hours of Wednesday, April 17.

Dubai Airports highlighted collaboration with service partners and airlines to minimize inconvenience experienced by guests.

RTA suspends services

Suspension of certain Intercity Bus services, including routes between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman, was announced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) due to the weather conditions.

#RTA informs you that due to the weather conditions these Intercity Bus services have been suspended until further notice.
➡️Dubai and Abu Dhabi
➡️Dubai and Sharjah
➡️Dubai and Ajman
Thanks for your understanding.

— RTA (@rta_dubai) April 16, 2024

Rains and thunderstorms across different parts of the UAE prompted safety advisories from federal and emirate-level authorities, emphasising caution for residents and travelers alike.

READ: Second wave of thunderstorms hit UAE: Dubai sees heavy rainfall