El Al to Operate Special Rescue Flights From Dubai to Tel Aviv Starting Friday

El Al is set to begin operating special rescue flights from Dubai to Tel Aviv starting Friday, pending approvals from the Shin Bet and the Ministry of Transportation's security department. This marks the first time in eight months that El Al will run such a service from Dubai. Currently, over 10,000 Israelis are reportedly stranded in Dubai and other destinations they were meant to transit through. Following a security incident involving a Flydubai flight diverted to Saudi Arabia on September 30, 2026, due to a suspected terror attack, the UAE has agreed to allow Shin Bet representatives to monitor passengers at Dubai Airport. This development comes after Israel's earlier proposal to transfer screening machines to the UAE was rejected by Abu Dhabi. In addition to El Al, Arkia and Israir will also offer flights, with their planes departing empty from Israel to the Gulf and selling tickets at a uniform price of $249 for a light fare, including a carry-on. Once approvals are secured, these flights will be available for booking on El Al's website and through travel agents. El Al stated that it will continue to do everything possible to increase flight schedules and help as many Israelis as possible return home safely.