VIDEO: Dubai Airport flooded, flights diverted after heavy rain

Dubai International Airport is facing significant disruptions to operations after the UAE was hit by an unprecedented storm that saw the heaviest rainfall on record in the past 24 hours.

The major travel hub was forced to shut down operations for 25 minutes on Tuesday due to the adverse weather.

Roads leading to the airport remained blocked and flooded after the deluge.

Several passengers missed flights due to the flooding, while many airlines cancelled or diverted services.

The airport urged passengers not to travel to the airport unless “absolutely necessary” on Wednesday morning.

Chief executive Paul Griffiths said the hub’s biggest challenge is flooding and backlog of aircraft.

“We’re having to operate a strict one-in-one-out philosophy because there’s nowhere to park these aircraft as they are arriving and departing,” he said on Dubai Eye on Wednesday.

At least 20 flights due to depart from Dubai International – one of the world’s busiest airports – were cancelled on Tuesday with dozens more delayed, affecting destinations including India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the UK.

Passengers were urged not to travel to the airport unless necessary.

“Due to the unprecedented weather conditions in the UAE, Dubai International is advising passengers not to come to the airport, unless absolutely necessary,” an official said.

“Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please contact your airline for the latest information on your flight status.

“We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions.”

RTA announced a free shuttle bus service for passengers arriving at the airport.

There will also be a free service at specific stations along the Metro’s Red and Green lines.

The authority announced earlier that it would be scheduling maintenance at stations, which would affect both metro schedules and stations.

On Wednesday, the authority said traffic on Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, heading to Sharjah, had been diverted to Dubai-Al Ain Road, leading to Emirates Road.

Floodwater in Mussaffah Industrial City, Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National