The temporary suspension of all flights to Bahrain from Dubai and Sharjah has been extended for a further 48 hours.
Bahrain announced its first case of coronavirus on Monday and shut three schools when a man, who had transported children to the institutions, tested positive after returning from Iran on February 21 via Dubai airport, the health ministry said.
The country’s Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA) ordered a two-day suspension of flights from Dubai and Sharjah.
On Thursday that was extended further as the CAA announced it had reduced the number of incoming regional flights, noting “this decision has been taken in order to safeguard the health of the kingdom’s citizens and residents”.
The number of coronavirus cases in Bahrain has increased to 33 as of Thursday morning.
A spokesperson for Emirates airline said: “Until February 28, customers across the Emirates network holding tickets for final destination Bahrain will not be accepted for boarding at their point of origin. Customers affected in Dubai will be offered flights to Dammam, KSA, if applicable, or a return flight to journey start point if holding return tickets.”
Bahrain has also suspended flights to and from Iraq and Lebanon indefinitely.
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