Major Airlines Extend Flexible Rebooking and Refund Policies Amid Middle East Disruptions

Crystal Travel | Travel News | 21 April 2026

Leading carriers introduce travel waivers through 2026 as passengers are urged to review options before deadlines expire

Middle East Disruptions: Airlines Extend Travel Waivers

As ongoing disruptions continue to affect air travel across the Middle East, a number of the world's leading airlines have introduced or extended flexible rebooking and refund waivers for affected passengers. Travellers holding tickets with major carriers are being urged to familiarise themselves with the latest policies and act before key validity deadlines expire.

The waivers — issued by carriers including Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, British Airways, Gulf Air, Kuwait Airways, and Virgin Atlantic — are designed to offer greater flexibility and financial protection during a period of continued uncertainty in the region.

What the Airlines Are Offering

Detailed Breakdown of Airline Rebooking Flexibility and Refund Policies Amid Middle East Disruptions

<h2><span style="font-size:11pt; font-variant:normal; white-space:pre-wrap"><span style="font-family:Lexend,sans-serif"><span style="color:#000000"><span style="font-weight:700"><span style="font-style:normal"><span style="text-decoration:none">Qatar Airways (QR)</span></span></span></span></span></span></h2>

Qatar Airways (QR)

Qatar Airways (QR) has introduced one of the most comprehensive flexibility measures currently available. Passengers with travel dates falling between 28 February 2026 and 15 September 2026 are entitled to unlimited free rebooking within the airline's policy terms. Eligible customers may also claim a full refund on any unused ticket value, offering considerable reassurance to those with active bookings.

Etihad Airways (EY)

Etihad Airways (EY) has activated a dedicated Middle East disruption waiver for passengers travelling up to 15 May 2026. Under this policy, affected travellers can rebook free of charge until 15 June 2026. Full refunds are available for unused tickets that fall within the stated validity window.

Gulf Air (GF)

Gulf Air (GF) has introduced a flexible travel waiver covering departures up to 30 April 2026, with free rebooking permitted through to 30 June 2026. Passengers should note, however, that full refunds under this policy are only applicable to flights officially cancelled after 15 April 2026.

Emirates (EK)

Emirates (EK) has extended its flexibility measures for travellers with departures up to 31 May 2026. The policy permits free rebooking within the same cabin class, and full refunds are available for eligible bookings within the validity period.

British Airways (BA)

British Airways (BA) has activated its disruption rebooking policy, covering travel between 28 February 2026 and 24 October 2026. Passengers may rebook free of charge in the same cabin or the lowest available class, with refunds permitted in accordance with the airline's published guidelines.

Virgin Atlantic (VS)

Virgin Atlantic (VS) has issued a Middle East travel advisory, offering rebooking support to passengers once flight operations resume. Travel validity under this policy is determined by ongoing disruption timelines, and refunds will be processed in line with the airline's schedule change policy.

Passengers Urged to Act Before Deadlines Expire

With several of these waivers carrying firm expiry dates, affected travellers are being strongly encouraged to review their bookings without delay. Missing a validity window could result in the loss of rebooking or refund entitlements, leaving passengers with significantly fewer options should their travel plans change.

Those holding tickets with any of the airlines listed above are advised to contact their respective airline or booking agent directly for personalised guidance on rebooking requests, refund eligibility, and any other queries related to Middle East travel disruptions.

Passengers are also reminded to keep a close eye on updates from their airline, as policies may be subject to change in response to evolving conditions on the ground.

Travellers are advised to check directly with their airline or travel provider for the most up-to-date information regarding their specific booking and eligibility.

Verified by Our Travel Operations Expert