El Al Suspends Dubai Flights Amid Heightened Security Demands

El Al Airlines announced on Thursday that it is suspending its Tel Aviv-Dubai route until at least November 30, 2026, citing security directives from relevant authorities. The airline stated that affected passengers will be notified and offered alternatives, including rebooking on other El Al or Sun D'or flights to Europe near their original departure date, with no change fees or fare differences.

This decision follows reports that Israeli airlines are unable to resume flights to the United Arab Emirates due to stricter security requirements imposed by the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency). Arkia Airlines had previously announced the cancellation of all its flights to the UAE until the end of October.

Prior to the October 7th conflict, flights between Israel and Dubai operated under specific security protocols. However, the Shin Bet is now demanding that Israeli flights utilize CT scanners for luggage loaded onto their aircraft. While Dubai International Airport has an advanced baggage handling system, Israel requires an additional screening of luggage destined for Israeli planes using scanners that Israel would provide in Dubai.

The UAE has reportedly refused this additional screening, and high-level efforts are underway to resolve the demand. Earlier, airline companies had appealed to Shin Bet chief David Zini, urging him to approve the resumption of flights. They emphasized the route's economic importance, particularly as a winter destination, and highlighted the significant financial losses incurred by the flight suspension. The airlines requested that the Shin Bet either resolve the crisis or permit flights to operate under the pre-October 8th security arrangements.