[Editor’s note: This story was initially published at 8.45am on Wednesday, April 17, when the suspension of check-in was first announced, which was from 8am on April 17 until midnight on April 18. It has now been updated to reflect the latest.]

Emirates airline late on Wednesday extended the suspension of check-in for passengers departing from Dubai till 9am on Thursday, April 18, due to operational challenges for travellers coming to the Dubai International (DXB) airport.

Recognising the challenge for passengers, the airline said it is working to secure accommodation and other amenities for the passengers at the airport.

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Earlier on Wednesday, Emirates announced the suspension of check-in for passengers departing Dubai effective from 8 am until midnight.

The Dubai-based airline asked passengers to come airport only if they had a confirmed flight booking.

Dubai Airports has been facing operational challenges also due to flooding after record rains on Tuesday.

“Emirates is extending the suspension of check-in for passengers departing Dubai effective 08:00hrs on 17 April until 09:00hrs on 18 April, due to continued operational challenges caused by bad weather and road conditions. Customers departing Dubai are requested to head to the airport only if they hold a confirmed flight booking, and only after 09:00hrs on 18 April,” an Emirates spokesperson said in a statement to Khaleej Times on Wednesday.

“Passengers arriving in Dubai and already in transit will continue to be processed for their flights. Customers can expect delays to departures and arrivals and are advised to check the latest flight schedules on the Emirates website,” said. The statement.

It advised customers impacted by flight cancellations to contact their booking agent or Emirates contact centre for rebooking.

“Emirates extends our sincerest apologies to impacted customers who have experienced delays and disruption to their travel plans. We appreciate how difficult it is for everyone affected,” it said.

The spokesperson said that while some customers have been able to return home or reach their destination, “we are aware that many are still waiting to get on flights. Our teams are working hard to restore our scheduled operations, as well as secure accommodation and other amenities for affected customers at the airport.”

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