DOHA, Qatar (Diya TV) — Qatar has announced the temporary suspension of all air traffic in its airspace as tensions rise across the Middle East. As a result, the State of Qatar confirmed the closure on Monday, calling it a precautionary measure to ensure public safety. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also assured citizens and visitors that it is closely monitoring the situation.
Meanwhile, in a public statement, the ministry emphasized that officials will continue to coordinate with regional and international partners. In addition, the ministry promised to issue updates through official channels as new information becomes available.
Moreover, the ministry stressed that Qatar’s top priority is the safety of its citizens, residents and visitors. Officials also noted that they will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to protect everyone on Qatari soil.
Recently, the decision to close Qatar’s airspace followed several days of geopolitical tensions across the region. For instance, the United States carried out military strikes on Iranian targets on June 21. Since then, fears of retaliation have increased. Therefore, airlines have already begun rerouting flights away from the Gulf region due to safety concerns.
Following the closure of airspace, all Qatar Airways flights to Doha immediately began diverting to nearby airports. Additionally, several aircraft first held in patterns over the Gulf before being redirected. Departures from Hamad International Airport in Doha also paused at that time.
Live data from Flightradar24 showed that most long-haul flights from Europe were diverting to Istanbul. For example, Qatar Airways Flight QR30 from London Gatwick was sent to Athens. Likewise, flights from Edinburgh, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Milan all headed to Istanbul as well.
At the same time, the United States and United Kingdom issued safety advisories for their citizens in Qatar. The U.S. Embassy urged Americans to shelter in place. Similarly, the U.K. Foreign Office shared a comparable warning.
This follows a series of disruptions across the region. In addition, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air France, Finnair, American Airlines and United Airlines suspended flights to Gulf cities, including Doha, Dubai and Manama.
Furthermore, other Gulf states also closed their airspace on Monday. The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait all followed Qatar’s lead and suspended flights. As a result, flight data showed at least six commercial flights turning back near UAE airspace. Flydubai Flight FZ186 from El Alamein to Dubai diverted to Bahrain.
Meanwhile, Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, described its airspace closure as a necessary security measure after the latest regional developments.
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs also posted a message on X explaining its decision.
“As part of the State of Qatar’s commitment to the safety of its citizens, residents and visitors, the relevant authorities announce the temporary suspension of air traffic.”
Qatar will resume flights once officials conclude that it is safe to do so.
