Is it safe to travel to Qatar? Latest flight advice including for Doha airport amid Israel-Iran conflict

The Sun

13 hours ago

YESTERDAY saw Qatar's airspace close as a result of ongoing unrest in the Middle East, despite the country being home to one of the world's busiest airports.
With its airspace now open again and flights resuming, here is everything you need to know about travelling to - or through - Qatar.
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What is happening in Qatar?
On Monday June 23, Iran launched a missile strike on a US airbase in Qatar.
This was in retaliation to a US attack on Iranian nuclear facilities that had been carried out amid Iran's ongoing conflict with Israel.
Qatari airspace was closed after flares were seen over the capital city, Doha, leaving thousands of passengers stranded - but it reopened today (Tuesday June 24) and air travel has resumed.
The US Embassy in Qatar also issued a 'shelter-in-place' order to its citizens in the area, with the UK Foreign Office issuing the same to British nationals.
Both the US and UK have since lifted the orders.
A ceasefire was announced by US President Donald Trump this morning, but it has now been broken.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for Qatar.
While it does not explicitly advise against travel to the area, it warns that there are risks that could warrant another closure of airspace.
The FCDO says: "Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran have the potential to deteriorate further, quickly and without warning including since US military strikes against Iran on 22 June.
There is a possibility of travel disruption, including short-notice airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights, and other unanticipated travel impacts."
UK flight heading to Doha forced to turn back after Iran's missile strike at Qatar
It also advises following the instructions of local authorities and reading the FCDO guidelines on what to do if you're affected by a crisis abroad.
Have flights been cancelled to Doha airport?
Thousands of travellers have been affected by flight cancellations after Doha's Hamad International airport closed for eight hours.
A Doha-bound Qatar Airways flight was diverted back to Manchester airport as a result of yesterday's missile strike, with another forced to return to London Heathrow.
Qatar Airways temporarily grounded all inbound planes, and other flights over the Middle East found themselves diverted to alternative airports in the region.
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The airline is now restoring its schedule but warns that possible disruptions could last until June 26.
Hamad International airport is the world's second largest after Dubai and is used by over 120,000 passengers a day.
Flights bound for Doha today are still experiencing severe disruption according to air traffic site FlightRadar.
Arrivals are experiencing an average delay of 5 hours, and some flights have been cancelled.
Travellers should check with relevant airlines for the latest updates before flying.
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Can I cancel my trip?
As the FCDO has not advised Brits not to travel, it is unlikely that you will be able to claim a full refund through travel insurance.
However, in a statement provided to The Sun, Qatar Airways said: "Those who wish to change their travel dates may do so without paying a fee until 15 July 2025.
"Customers who no longer wish to travel can opt to receive a refund of the unused value of their tickets, without any cancellation fee being applied."
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Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you're flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven't used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn't have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other 'extraordinary circumstances' are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of "extraordinary circumstances" but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can't claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you're unlikely to be covered by your insurance.