Air France Extends Flight Cancellations Amid Rising Middle East Tensions and French Nationals' Safety Fears

As tensions escalate in the Middle East following U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran, Air France has expanded its flight cancellations to include Beirut, Dubai, and Riyadh in addition to Tel Aviv. The airline announced that these routes would remain suspended at least until March 1, 2026, with future operations dependent on security assessments on the ground. Customers affected by these disruptions are to receive adapted commercial measures.

The cancellations align with a broader wave of flight suspensions across global carriers, particularly in the Gulf region, triggered by the closure of several Middle Eastern airspaces. This move underscores growing international concerns over the security situation in the region.

French nationals living in or visiting the Middle East, especially in Dubai, are facing heightened anxiety amid Iranian missile attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates. Reports indicate that Iran launched 137 missiles and 209 drones toward the UAE, causing explosions in Dubai and a deadly incident at Abu Dhabi Airport that left one person dead and seven injured.

Residents in Dubai recounted the panic and fear following the attacks. Sylviana, a French resident, described hearing terrifying missile sounds overhead, while 22-year-old Léna expressed anxiety about the unpredictability of the strikes. Air France passenger Awa shared that her flight cancellation compelled her to consider returning to France, emphasizing that she had previously felt safe in Dubai. The UAE government has advised residents to seek shelter and stay away from windows for their safety.

These developments highlight the precarious situation for French citizens in the Middle East amid the ongoing conflict, with travel disruptions and direct threats to civilian security prompting urgent responses from airlines and increased caution from residents.