El Al Suspends Dubai Flights Until Late 2026 Amid Security Dispute
El Al, Israel's flag carrier, announced on Thursday a dramatic suspension of its Tel Aviv-Dubai route until November 30, 2026. The airline cited "security and relevant authority directives" as the reason for the halt, stemming from ongoing disagreements over security measures for Israeli flights to the UAE. Passengers with existing bookings will be notified and offered alternative flights to El Al or Sun D'Or destinations in Europe, with options to change their travel dates up to three days before or after their original flight, without additional fees or fare differences.
The dispute centers on a demand by Israel's Shin Bet security agency for an additional CT scan of passenger luggage on Israeli flights, beyond the existing screening systems at Dubai International Airport. Reports indicate that the UAE opposes this extra screening, and high-level discussions are underway to resolve the issue. This security requirement is currently preventing Israeli airlines from resuming flights to Dubai.
El Al joins other Israeli carriers like Arkia, which previously announced flight cancellations to the Emirates until the end of October. Meanwhile, UAE-based airlines, including Flydubai and Etihad, continue to operate flights from Israel to the UAE. Israeli airlines have reportedly appealed to Shin Bet chief David Zini to allow the resumption of flights, emphasizing the route's economic importance, particularly during holiday seasons and winter.
However, the security restrictions remain in place, forcing El Al's decision to extend the suspension. Passengers booked on flights to Dubai before November 30 will have their flights canceled and will be contacted with available rebooking options.
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