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Emirates is attempting to ease some of the apprehension travelers may be feeling about flying to Dubai by offering a generous, flexible travel policy that includes unlimited free date changes.
In an August 11 press release, the airline is clearly trying to encourage travelers to buy tickets to Dubai following a period of uncertainty for flying in and out of the area. Here's what to know about Emirates' latest change and cancellation fee updates.
Emirates Extends Flexible Travel Policies for Dubai Flights
Emirates and Flydubai are still operating a busy schedule in light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, but the same can't be said for other carriers. Here are just a few of the airlines that have suspended service to Dubai and when the suspension should hopefully be lifted:
- Air France: August 25, 2026
- Air Canada: mid-January 2027
- British Airways: October 25, 2026
- Cathay Pacific: October 25, 2026
- Lufthansa: September 13, 2026
- Singapore Airlines: October 24, 2026
- Virgin Atlantic: 2027 winter
In other words, if you want to travel to Dubai in the next couple of months, you'll have far fewer options than normal.
Emirates offers free date changes on new bookings
From August 10, 2026, onwards, Emirates customers traveling to Dubai can change their travel dates as many times as they need, free of fees. This new free change policy applies to all fare types, including Saver fares.
That said, free doesn't always mean free. Fare differences will still apply, so you can't use this new policy to book the cheapest flight you can find and then change it to a peak travel day for free.
This new policy is in addition to the already more-flexible-than-usual change policy that provides travelers with one free date change across the entire Emirates network on all tickets booked on or after April 2, 2026. This includes journeys connecting through Dubai. You can even hold a fare for 24 hours for no charge if you need a little bit more time to decide on your travel plans.
Emirates reduces refund fees for Dubai flights
The other exciting news from the update is that Emirates has reduced refund fees for flights to Dubai to $50 for Saver fares and $25 for Flex fares in economy. In business class, refund fees will be $50 on Special and Saver fares and $25 on Flex Fares, but no-show fees remain unchanged.
How to change or cancel an Emirates flight
To change or cancel an Emirates flight, click here. Enter your last name and booking reference number, then click “Retrieve booking.” You should be able to change or cancel any Emirates flight booked directly with Emirates online. If you're unable, you can contact Emirates.
Note that if you booked through a third party or a travel agent, you will need to submit your change or cancellation request through the original platform.
Related: The Best Uses of Emirates Skywards Miles
Bottom Line
While the announcement about unlimited free date changes will be welcomed by many, especially those who have been feeling anxious about an upcoming trip, there may still be a fare difference to pay. This will depend on the date and time, but it could still be an extra expense, which isn’t particularly beneficial if it’s an expensive change. The reduction of refund fees is great news for everyone, though.
These changes likely won't be in effect forever. Once travel goes back to normal, standard change and cancellation fees will apply. However, we don't have an end date for this new policy, so you might as well take advantage of it while you can.
