UITP monitoring Gulf geopolitical developments ahead of Dubai Summit

UITP has informed Summit registrants that it is monitoring geopolitical developments in the Gulf region ahead of the 2026 Global Public Transport Summit scheduled in Dubai from 21 to 23 April.

The International Association of Public Transport (UITP) has sent a communication to participants registered for the 2026 Global Public Transport Summit addressing the security situation in the Gulf region in the weeks preceding the event, which is scheduled to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

UITP monitoring developments in Gulf region

The message, signed by UITP president Gautier Brodeo and secretary general Mohamed Mezghani, refers to the recent escalation in the region following Iranian drone and missile attacks targeting locations in Dubai. Reports indicate that the strikes or debris from intercepted drones have affected sites including Dubai International Airport and hotels such as the Burj Al Arab and the Fairmont The Palm in Palm Jumeirah.

The developments have also affected aviation operations across the region. Large portions of Middle Eastern airspace have been temporarily closed in recent days, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport have indicated that operations are gradually resuming on a limited basis, advising travellers to arrive only if their flights have been confirmed and warning that schedules may change with short notice.

In the message sent to participants, the association stated that it is maintaining contact with authorities and local partners while monitoring the situation ahead of the event. “UITP is closely monitoring geopolitical developments in the Gulf region in advance of the 2026 Summit, next month in Dubai. Over the past few days, we have remained in ongoing contact with the relevant authorities and our 2026 local hosts, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), as we carefully assess the situation in real time.”

“UITP has longstanding experience in managing major international events, and we remain committed to acting responsibly, transparently, and in the best interests and safety of our members and the public transport community. We appreciate the continued trust and engagement of our members, partners and stakeholders and will communicate further information as and when appropriate. In the meantime, please stay connected to our corporate and Summit websites and LinkedIn channels for updates.”