Emirates extends Kuwait flight suspension until August 21, expands flexible travel options for affected passengers
Emirates has extended the suspension of its daily Dubai–Kuwait–Dubai services until 21 August 2026, citing operational reasons, while significantly expanding the travel options available to customers affected by the prolonged disruption.
The airline confirmed that its daily EK857 and EK858 services between Dubai and Kuwait will remain cancelled through 21 August, extending an earlier suspension that covered flights from 19 to 31 July. Passengers with bookings during the affected period have been advised to review their itineraries and contact Emirates or their travel agents to arrange alternative travel.
Following ticket reissuance, customers are also encouraged to contact Emirates to ensure their Passenger Name Record (PNR) is updated and protected.
Multiple travel alternatives offered
To reduce inconvenience, Emirates has introduced several flexible options for passengers booked to travel between 19 July and 21 August 2026.
Customers may rebook on another Emirates-operated flight in the same travel cabin. For journeys completed on or before 30 September 2026, passengers can be accommodated in any available booking class within the same cabin. For travel beyond that date, rebooking will be subject to the original booking class and ticket validity.
Passengers also have the option to reroute their journey on Emirates-operated services, with similar flexibility applying for travel through September. Standard fare conditions will apply for later travel dates.
Greater flexibility on flydubai codeshare flights
Emirates has also expanded options through its partnership with flydubai, allowing eligible passengers to travel on Emirates-marketed, flydubai-operated codeshare services.
Customers travelling within 10 days of their original departure date may rebook or reroute in any available booking class within the same cabin. Those travelling beyond the 10-day window may still change their itinerary, subject to the original booking class and ticket validity.
This additional flexibility provides more travel alternatives for passengers while Emirates’ direct Kuwait services remain suspended.
Kuwait Airways available for selected long-haul travellers
For customers whose original travel was scheduled on or before 31 July 2026, Emirates will continue offering re-accommodation on Kuwait Airways under specific circumstances.
The arrangement applies only to long-haul itineraries connecting through Dubai and is available only when no suitable Emirates or Emirates-flydubai alternative exists on the Dubai–Kuwait route. The airline noted that the arrangement is limited to affected flight sectors and cannot be applied to unaffected portions of an itinerary.
Refund option remains available
Passengers who decide not to travel may opt for a refund of unused flight coupons, with Emirates confirming that cancellation charges will be waived for eligible tickets.
Travellers urged to review bookings
Emirates has urged all affected customers to contact the airline or their travel agents as soon as possible to review available travel options, complete ticket reissuance where required and ensure their bookings remain protected.
The latest extension means Emirates’ direct Dubai–Kuwait operations will remain suspended until 21 August 2026, as the airline continues to adjust its regional schedule in response to ongoing operational requirements while providing passengers with greater flexibility through rebooking, rerouting, partner airline accommodation and refunds.
