Israel Secures Approval for Flights to Dubai After Diplomatic Push

Israel's Ministry of Transportation announced early Friday that an agreement had been reached to resolve a dispute with Emirati authorities over evacuation flights from Dubai. The crisis erupted Thursday when Emirati officials rescinded approval for the flights, leading to cancellations by El Al, which does not operate on Saturdays. Arkia Airlines announced it would send an empty plane to Dubai to bring Israeli citizens home. A total of five evacuation flights from Israir and Arkia are expected on Saturday, with El Al likely to operate one flight Saturday evening after the Sabbath.

The Ministry of Transportation stated that after the UAE reconsidered its approval for Israeli airlines, "it was agreed that Israeli airline flights from Dubai to Israel would begin starting Friday, October 2nd." However, the ministry cautioned that final security preparations and coordination were still needed, potentially delaying the return of some Israelis. El Al had already canceled its two scheduled flights for Friday, citing the proximity of the Sabbath. The airline is now preparing for flights starting next week, with all seats reportedly sold out.

Intensive diplomatic efforts involving Israel's Shin Bet security agency, the Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Transportation, and Ambassador Yossi Shelley were conducted throughout Thursday night to resolve the issue. Arkia confirmed it received the necessary permits and would operate one flight Friday and another Saturday, with Minister Regev requesting three additional weekend flights.

Passengers on these evacuation flights are restricted to a single personal bag, with larger luggage to be sent separately via cargo. Arkia tickets start at $279, with similar luggage restrictions. Israir has not yet opened ticket sales, stating they will do so once "necessary certainties regarding the flights" are available. El Al tickets, priced at $249, sold out within minutes.