Emirates has introduced new measures that give passengers more flexibility when booking flights to Dubai. Since 10 August 2026, eligible passengers can change their travel dates an unlimited number of times without paying a change fee. The airline has also reduced refund fees for several fares, giving travellers more options if their plans change.
Passengers travelling to Dubai can now change their travel dates without a fee on several Economy and Business Class fares. The option applies to Economy Saver through Flex fares and Business Class Special, Saver and Flex fares. Travellers can therefore change their dates as many times as needed without paying a separate change fee each time.
However, a free date change does not mean that the new flight will always cost the same. If the replacement flight has a higher fare, passengers may still have to pay the difference. Economy Flex Plus, Premium Economy, Business Flex Plus and First Class tickets already offer full flexibility under their existing conditions.
Emirates has also reduced the fees for passengers who want to cancel their Dubai-bound flights. Economy Saver and Business Special or Saver fares can now be refunded for a $50 (€43) fee. The charge for Economy and Business Flex fares has been reduced to $25 (€22). No-show fees remain unchanged.
The lower fees give passengers another option if changing their travel date is no longer suitable. Travellers who are uncertain about their plans can therefore book with more flexibility than before. Emirates advises passengers to check the conditions of their individual fare before making changes or requesting a refund.
The new flexibility also extends beyond Dubai. Tickets booked since 2 April 2026 include one complimentary date change across the Emirates network, including itineraries that connect through Dubai. Passengers can also hold a fare for 24 hours without paying a fee while they finalise their travel plans.
The measures come against a backdrop of uncertainty for Dubai’s tourism sector, with regional instability and disruptions to air travel affecting travel plans in recent months. Travel Tomorrow previously reported on a Dubai initiative offering residents rewards worth more than €700 for inviting friends and relatives from abroad. Emirates’ new policy gives travellers another option when booking a trip by making it easier to adjust their plans if circumstances change.
Emirates is also offering support when passengers face operational disruptions. Where necessary, affected travellers can receive accommodation and be rebooked at no additional cost if their onward connection is disrupted or an Emirates service is unavailable. The measures also cover situations involving airspace closures.
The airline is additionally promoting its Comprehensive Travel Cover in 27 countries. The insurance includes cancellation and baggage protection, as well as worldwide medical and emergency evacuation cover. It also provides specific protection related to conflict, including up to $25,000 in medical expenses and trip extensions of up to 30 days.
Emirates Skywards members can also receive temporary benefits until 31 August. Members need 20% fewer Tier Miles to reach Silver, Gold or Platinum status and receive a 20% Tier Miles bonus on Emirates and flydubai flights. The airline is also increasing the value of its Cash+Miles option, with 2,000 Miles redeemable for $30 (€26), twice the usual value.
