What happened
Dubai has implemented a new service policy capping foreign airlines at one flight per day to its airports. This restriction is effective through May 31, 2026, or until capacity allows for more rotations. The policy was announced following recent disruptions due to the Iran conflict, which forced many carriers to suspend operations. While the move aims to manage capacity, it has drawn criticism for being illogical: an airline with only one daily flight (like United) is unaffected, while carriers with dozens of daily flights (such as Indian airlines) face a ~90% reduction in capacity. Indian airline groups are demanding reciprocal policies against Dubai-based carriers like Emirates and FlyDubai. The move is viewed by many as protectionist, favoring local carriers over foreign competitors