2nd March 2026
There have been developments in the Middle East over the weekend which means that there is currently serious disruption to transport and logistics services in the area.
As a result, you should expect delays to shipments. All information was correct and up to date at the time of writing and we will aim to make updates as we get them.
Here's what you need to know:
AIR FREIGHT
There are widespread airspace closures and high levels of military activity which has led to the suspension of nearly all commercial flights.
These closures and cancellations are currently impacting:
- Bahrain
- Israel
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
Carriers including Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways have cancelled the majority of their operations at the time of writing (2nd March 2026). There are some indications that services may resume on Tuesday 3rd March, but this is subject to the reopening of the airspace and further developments in the area.
Please note that the above carriers and countries should be treated as guide only and is not an exhaustive list.
SEA FREIGHT
Vessels have been advised against travel through the Strait of Hormuz after some were targeted in the area over the weekend. Around 20% of the world's oil and gas is shipped via this waterway and so disruption to supplies and prices is expected
.A number of companies including Dutch container shipping group Maersk have paused sailings through both the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal, rerouting ships around the Cape of Good Hope until further notice.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR ME?
With closures and disruptions to both regional airspaces and major maritime routes, it's reasonable to expect that there will also be disruption to shipping timelines and deliveries.
There is the possibility that we will see a knock on effect of increase in courier fees if fuel prices rise as expected.
As this is a fluid situation, it is entirely possible that restrictions and closures could be lifted or enforced at any time. You should be aware that even though your current shipments may not be affected, this does not mean that future ones are guaranteed to be unaffected too.
All information included was correct at the time of writing, but it's expected that things will change as the situation develops. Where we can make updates as the situation progresses, we will.
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
We're in close contact with our partners around the world and are monitoring the situation. We and our partners remain committed to helping you move goods as easily and safely as possible. As soon as we can share further updates about this disruption, we will be in contact to help you stay as informed as possible.
We understand that these disruptions may have an impact on your business and if you have questions, then we're here to help. Please note that as this situation is evolving rapidly, our team will try their best to help, but may not always have the answers you need immediately.