4 min readDec 18, 2025 10:40 PM IST
First published on: Dec 18, 2025 at 09:29 PM IST
Several airlines and Dubai airport have issued travel advisories for passengers leaving between December 18 and 19 as the UAE is expected to experience heavy rain and strong winds, which may result in road delays and lead to disruptions in flight schedules.
Downpour and strong winds could affect road visibility and driving conditions, the airline warned, adding that passengers should allow extra travel time where possible or use the Dubai Metro, Khaleej Times reported on Thursday.
In preparation for the weather, Emirates advised that First and Business Class customers who have confirmed Chauffeur Drive bookings will be collected an hour in advance of their scheduled pick-up time.
“Customers are requested to make sure their contact details are up to date through Manage Your Booking to ensure they receive timely updates,” the airline said, adding that passengers should ensure regular checking of their flight status during the period.
Due to bad weather conditions, Flydubai asked its passengers to come to Dubai International Airport four hours prior to the flight, expecting traffic delays at DXB or disruptions in airport operations. Check-in can be done online between 75 minutes and 48 hours before flight departure.
Passengers travelling from Dubai International Airport – DXB are advised to confirm their flight status with their airlines and leave for their destination early. Commuters can use Metro wherever possible and plan commute accordingly to avoid traffic congestion.
What IndiGo said
Separately, Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo issued a travel advisory warning passengers of possible flight disruptions as weather conditions across the UAE are expected to worsen, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast.
“Weather conditions across the UAE are forecast to shift, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected. In light of this evolving situation, there may be intermittent impacts to flight operations at various points throughout the day,” the airline said in a post on X.
While stressing that efforts are being made to operate flights as scheduled, IndiGo cautioned that changes may be unavoidable. “While every effort is being made to maintain schedules, adjustments, including possible cancellations, may be required if conditions evolve,” it said, asking passengers to keep a check on their flight status.
The airline also flagged possible road delays due to the weather. “You may also experience road delays. We recommend allowing extra travel time to reach the airport,” the advisory said.
For passengers whose flights are affected, IndiGo said alternative options are available. “Should your flight be impacted, you may explore alternate travel options or claim a refund directly via Plan B,” the airline said, adding that “proactive notifications will be shared with affected customers to keep you informed in real time,” and thanked passengers for their patience and understanding.
Work from home advised
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has urged private sector companies in the most affected areas to implement remote work on December 19, for roles that permit such arrangements. The call is aimed at safeguarding employee health and safety amid heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds sweeping across the country, Khaleej Times reported.
Emirates advised that First and Business Class customers who have confirmed Chauffeur Drive bookings will be collected an hour in advance of their scheduled pick-up time. (File) 
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