UAE Flight Delayed or Cancelled? Learn How To Claim Your Compensation

Flight delays and cancellations can cause significant disruption for travellers, but UAE law provides passengers with clear and enforceable rights. Whether the disruption arises from operational issues, overbooking, or even adverse weather, passengers departing from or arriving in the UAE are protected by a combination of local regulations and international conventions. Understanding these rights allows passengers to claim compensation, recover financial losses, and ensure airlines meet their legal obligations.

Passenger Rights Under UAE Aviation Regulations

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority Passenger Welfare Programme establishes mandatory obligations on airlines when flights are delayed or cancelled. These obligations apply to all passengers travelling on UAE-based carriers and to flights operating within the UAE’s regulatory scope. The framework focuses on passenger welfare rather than inconvenience alone.

Airline Duty of Care During Delays

Airlines are legally required to provide escalating levels of assistance based on the length of the delay. After two hours, passengers are entitled to meals and refreshments. After three hours, airlines must provide access to communication, including phone calls or internet. Where delays exceed six hours or require an overnight stay, airlines must arrange hotel accommodation and transportation between the airport and hotel.

Rights in the Event of Flight Cancellations

When a flight is cancelled, passengers are entitled to a choice between a full refund of the unused ticket or rebooking on an alternative flight at no additional cost. These rights apply regardless of the reason for cancellation, including technical issues or weather related disruptions. Airlines cannot shift responsibility by citing operational difficulties.

Compensation for Financial Loss Under UAE Law

Federal Decree Law No. 50 of 2022, governing commercial transactions, reinforces passenger rights by holding carriers liable for proven financial losses caused by late arrival. This includes costs such as missed hotel bookings, alternative transport arrangements, and essential purchases made as a direct result of the delay. Claims must be supported by documentation, such as receipts and confirmations.

International Flights and the Montreal Convention

For international travel, the Montreal Convention of 1999 provides additional protection. Under this convention, airlines may be held liable for delay related damages up to 6,303 Special Drawing Rights, equivalent to approximately Dh31,000. For baggage delay, loss, or damage, liability is capped at 1,519 Special Drawing Rights, approximately Dh7,500.

Baggage Delay and Loss Claims

Passengers must notify the airline of baggage damage within seven days and baggage delay within twenty one days. Legal action must be initiated within two years from the date of arrival or the date the flight should have arrived. Failure to comply with these timelines may result in loss of the right to claim.

Weather Disruptions and Airline Responsibility

Even where delays are caused by weather or air traffic restrictions, airlines remain responsible for passenger welfare obligations under UAE regulations. While compensation for delay may depend on circumstances, duty of care requirements continue to apply without exception.

How to File a Claim

Passengers should first submit a formal claim directly to the airline, providing clear details and supporting documents. If the response is unsatisfactory, complaints may be escalated to aviation authorities or relevant international bodies. For flights departing from the European Union or the United Kingdom, EU or UK passenger compensation regulations may also apply, potentially entitling passengers to additional fixed compensation.

Importance of Legal Advice

Airline claims often involve overlapping local and international laws, making legal assessment essential in higher value or disputed cases. Understanding which regime applies and how to evidence financial loss can significantly affect the outcome of a claim.

Conclusion

UAE passengers are far from powerless when faced with flight delays or cancellations. With clearly defined rights under local aviation regulations, commercial law, and international conventions, passengers may be entitled to care, reimbursement, and compensation of up to Dh31,000 in qualifying cases. Proper documentation and timely action are key to enforcing these rights effectively.

For businesses seeking guidance, Al Kabban & Associates, with over 30 years of experience in UAE law and recognition by Legal 500, stands ready to help corporations build resilience against legal risks while ensuring compliance with local and international standards. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at +971 4 453 9090 or visit www.alkabban.com. You can also follow us on social media for more updates on everything law related in the UAE: @Alkabban_Law

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