"Dubai Airports" announced that it has successfully restored operational activities at Dubai International Airport to their normal state, following intensive efforts to handle the aftermath of the heavy rains that the United Arab Emirates experienced, which are considered the heaviest in 75 years. Paul Griffiths, CEO of "Dubai Airports," stated that they managed to return the flight schedule at Dubai International Airport to its normal course faster than the previously established timeline, with the airport currently operating at a rate of 1,400 flights daily.
Griffiths said, "With the roads leading to the airport and its surroundings completely free from water accumulation, all our facilities, workforce, and logistical services are back to normal operations at full capacity. We faced significant challenges due to the heavy rain, resulting in the cancellation of 2,155 flights and the diversion of 115 others. However, thanks to our relentless efforts and close collaboration with our partners, we were able to reschedule the flights, enhance our workforce, and provide assistance to all travelers affected by cancellations or delays, ensuring their comfort and safety."
He praised the team spirit that prevailed among the Dubai Airport community, including the dedicated Dubai Airports employees and partners from airlines, government agencies, and service partners, stating, "We witnessed exceptional weather conditions, and our employees and partners worked tirelessly to keep operations running as smoothly as possible and assist our guests. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to returning matters to normal quickly and efficiently."
It is noteworthy that 31 flights were diverted to Dubai World Central (DWC) to ensure the continuity of passenger flights. By April 19, support had been successfully provided to all guests at the airport to enable them to continue their journeys.
Griffiths added, "The well-being of our guests has remained our top priority throughout this period. Despite the initial challenges in transporting supplies due to road closures around Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central, Dubai Airports managed to distribute over 75,000 snack packs to affected travelers across both airports."
He pointed out that there are some remaining challenges, including dealing with baggage accumulation, and emphasized the close cooperation with service partners to address these challenges, acknowledging the need for further efforts and expressing gratitude to guests for their patience during this time.
Griffiths stated, "We are fully aware of the ongoing impact of the heavy rains on the affected communities and businesses throughout the UAE, and we feel deep sorrow over this. We also reaffirm our support for our employees who have been significantly affected by the weather, and we will continue to assist them in any way possible."
As normal operational activities resume, "Dubai Airports" advised guests to arrive at the terminal three hours before their flight departure to avoid unnecessary congestion and facilitate smooth operations.
