Saudia Extending Flight Suspension To Qatar Airways’ Announcement For Travellers; 5 GCC Updates For You

As there are many new developments coming in from the GCC, it’s quite difficult to keep up with them. After all, the situation there is constantly evolving and that too at a very rapid pace. To ensure you are ahead of the news, we have listed out some important developments that you might want to know.

1. Saudia Extends Flight Cancellations

Saudia, which is the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has extended its flight cancellations to eight destinations. Yes, these are for the destinations of Amman, Dubai, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Bahrain, Peshawar, and Moscow. However, the development comes amid regional airspace closure, and this suspension has been extended until March 4th, 11:59 GMT.

2. The Financial Sector In Qatar Shifts To Remote Work

The Qatar Financial Market Authority has announced that its employees will be working from home until further notice. This implementation of remote working is also for all licensed entities that come under its supervision. This is effective from today, March 3rd, and will stay in place until further notice. It is also in line with the previously issued statements, which are on flexible working arrangements.

3. Qatar Airways Makes Important Announcement For Travellers

Booking assistance

If you have a confirmed booking with a travel date between 28 February and 10 March 2026, you are eligible for:

Complimentary date changes of up to 14 days from the original travel date, or a refund of the unused value of your ticket.

We are experiencing…

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) March 2, 2026

Qatar Airways has announced that those who were supposed to travel between February 28th and March 10th 2026 are eligible for a complimentary date change. This is for up to 14 days from the original travel date. Not to mention, they can also ask for a refund of the unused value of the ticket. The development comes as the airline is experiencing high volumes, with the wait being longer than usual. So, it is being advised that one must contact only if they are travelling within 48 hours.

4. Emirates Flight From Mumbai Lands Safely In Dubai

An Emirates flight, which was flying from Mumbai to Dubai, made a reverse on March 2nd. The flight, which was from Mumbai, took a reverse before turning back towards the emirate, and had landed safely. Flight EK 501, as revealed by The National News, is operated by an Airbus A380 aircraft. It did an initial U-turn over the Gulf of Oman before heading back to Dubai.

Also Read: GCC Flights: Etihad Airways To Qatar Airways, What Is The Status Of Flights?

5. Qatar Announces One-Month Extension For Entry Visa That Expired

Qatar has announced a one-month extension for entry visas that expired or are close to expiring from February 28, 2026 onwards. This move is being processed automatically and is free of charge. Not to mention, the Ministry of Interior revealed that visa holders need not visit government offices.

While the situation continues to evolve rapidly, it is important that one stays up to date. And one must only follow the news from the official channel of the Government.

Cover Image Courtesy: Saudia Airlines/Website