Stranded in Dubai? Here's How to Get F...

If you’re one of the many Aussies or Kiwis currently caught in the travel chaos at Dubai (DXB) or Abu Dhabi (AUH), we have some genuinely good news for once.

While the flight disruptions across the UAE have been a total nightmare, the local government and businesses have stepped up in a way we rarely see. Forget sleeping on an airport floor or eating overpriced crackers—there is a massive support net available right now.

Here is the Beat That Flight breakdown of how to get sorted if you’re stranded.

The Big One: The UAE “State Sanctuary” Directive

The UAE government (GCAA) has officially issued a decree that the state will cover the costs for stranded international travellers. This is a game-changer.

The Deal: 100% free accommodation, meals, and refreshments.
Who is eligible: Any international visitor or transit passenger (yes, that includes you on your way to London or back to Sydney/Auckland) whose flight has been cancelled or delayed.
How to get it:
- At the Airport: Head straight to the GCAA (Civil Aviation) desk or your airline’s ground staff. They are actively bussing passengers to designated hotels.
- Already in a Hotel? Do NOT check out. The government has instructed hotels to extend stays for stranded guests and invoice the tourism departments (DET/DCT) directly.

Luxe & Local: Private Businesses Pitching In

If the government queues are too long, several luxury providers and local legends are offering direct help:

Palazzo Versace Dubai: They are offering complimentary stays and breakfast for impacted travellers. Contact them at reservations@palazzoversace.ae or +971 4 556 8888.
Danube Properties: Providing free temporary housing with a “families first” priority. Reach out via Instagram @danubeproperties.
Casa Elan Holiday Homes: Offering an initial 2-night complimentary stay. You just need to show your cancelled flight confirmation. Email contact@casaelan.ae.
Fibber Magee’s: If you just need a proper meal and a friendly face, this iconic Irish pub on Sheikh Zayed Road is providing free meals for those affected.

Pro Tips for the Stranded Aussie/Kiwi

Don’t “Self-Cancel”: If you cancel your own booking through an app, you might be classified as a “voluntary cancellation” and lose your right to the free state housing. Let the airline officially cancel or delay you first.
Keep Every Receipt: Even with the freebies, you might have to pay for a taxi or a quick snack. Keep those receipts! You’ll need them for insurance claims or potential reimbursements later.
Emergency Contacts:
- Aussies: Contact the Consulate-General in Dubai +971 4 377 7100
- Kiwis: Contact the New Zealand Consulate-General in Dubai +971 4 507 0000

Stay safe, stay calm, and remember—this too shall pass. And hey, at least you’re stranded somewhere with actual support rather than sleeping on an airport floor!