Dubai-Incheon flights resume after Iran conflict

Flights Resume Between Dubai and Incheon Amid Conflict

Emirates passenger jets are parked on the apron at Incheon International Airport as several Middle Eastern countries have suspended flights following U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran. Direct flights between Dubai and Incheon resumed Friday after being suspended due to the Middle East conflict. The resumption allows Korean tourists stranded in the region to return home, though flights to Dubai and other Middle Eastern destinations remain suspended until Sunday.

The first Emirates flights departed Dubai at 3:30 a.m. and 4:45 a.m. local time, marking the first direct service between Korea and the Middle East since the suspension following airstrikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory attacks. The Korean government is discussing chartered flights and military transport to evacuate Korean nationals, with around 20,000 Koreans in the region. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun requested UAE authorities to allow chartered flights to Incheon, focusing on helping those who wish to return home. Around 3,000 Koreans, mostly travelers, are in the UAE, many in Dubai. This move aims to alleviate the travel restrictions caused by the conflict, allowing for the safe return of Korean nationals.