Dhaka has recently experienced significant travel disruptions for passengers bound for the Middle East, causing widespread inconvenience and uncertainty. At Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, numerous flights to the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar were cancelled over the past few days. On Monday alone, 39 flights were called off, leaving hundreds of travellers stranded. In contrast, flights to Oman, Saudi Arabia, and other destinations reportedly continued without interruption, according to airport authorities.
Airport sources confirmed that a total of 102 flights have been cancelled over the last three days, with passengers facing considerable difficulties, particularly those travelling on short-term visas or with urgent travel requirements.
Summary of Recent Flight Cancellations
| Date | Cancelled Flights | Main Affected Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday | 23 | Middle East |
| Sunday | 40 | Middle East |
| Monday | 39 | UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar |
| Total | 102 | — |
The cancellations have imposed severe stress on passengers. Rajib Bairagi, a traveller from Tungipara, Gopalganj, had planned to fly to Kuwait via Emirates Airlines. Arriving in Dhaka on Friday to take advantage of the weekend, he expressed frustration: “My visa is only valid for three more days. I have no idea what to do now.” Due to Saturday’s cancellations and restricted airport access, he was unable to approach the airline counter directly, and reported receiving no assistance from government agencies.
Other passengers have also endured extended waits at the airport, with those on time-sensitive visas facing additional anxiety. Airport officials have stated that it remains uncertain when flight operations will return to normal.
Airlines have assured affected passengers that rebooked flights and alternative arrangements will be communicated promptly. Nevertheless, the situation remains unpredictable, and travellers continue to face uncertainty.
Experts advise passengers to remain vigilant, maintain regular contact with airport authorities, and monitor airline updates closely. Following security protocols and proactively communicating with relevant authorities is crucial to managing the ongoing disruption effectively.
This incident highlights the critical need for careful planning, real-time monitoring, and active coordination between airlines and airport authorities to minimise passenger hardship during large-scale operational disruptions.