Flights from Accra to Dubai Suspended as Middle East Tensions Escalate After Strikes on Iran
Emirates flight EK 788 from Kotoka International Airport (ACC) to Dubai (DXB), scheduled to depart at 7:15 pm GMT on Saturday, February 28, has been cancelled amid rapidly deteriorating security conditions across the Middle East.
The flight was set to arrive in Dubai at 6:50 am local time (+04) on Sunday, March 1. Flight tracking platforms now show the service as cancelled, with no gate information or alternative routing provided. Emirates has not yet released a specific statement on the Accra route, but the airline has suspended operations to and from Dubai International Airport (DXB) due to multiple airspace closures in the region.
Several Gulf countries including Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE—have closed or severely restricted their airspace following a wave of military strikes and retaliatory actions. Reports indicate US and Israeli forces carried out coordinated attacks on targets inside Iran, with Iranian authorities confirming explosions in Tehran and other provinces.
The escalation reached a dramatic point when US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social claiming that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, had been killed in the operation. Describing Khamenei as “one of the most evil people in history,” Trump called the killing “justice” and stated that “heavy and targeted bombing” would continue “as long as necessary.” Israeli officials also suggested senior Iranian figures had been eliminated, though Iranian state media has not confirmed Khamenei’s death and initially denied the reports.
The strikes have triggered air-defence alerts and missile exchanges across the region, prompting airlines to ground flights and reroute services. Dubai, one of the world’s busiest transit hubs, serves as a key connection point for passengers from Ghana travelling to Asia, Europe, and North America. The suspension is expected to cause widespread disruption for travellers with onward connections.
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and major airlines have advised passengers to contact their carriers directly for rebooking, refunds, or alternative arrangements. Travellers are urged to monitor official airline communications and avoid non-essential trips to the Gulf region until the security situation stabilizes.
The African Union Commission has expressed grave concern over the escalation, warning of risks to global energy markets, food security, and economic stability—particularly for African nations already facing multiple pressures. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, describing the situation as a threat to international peace that “no one can control.”
The situation remains highly fluid, with airspaces across the Middle East under constant review. Passengers with upcoming flights through Dubai or other affected hubs should prepare for further cancellations or delays.
