Did your plans change out of the blue? This guide explains everything about Emirates Airlines’ date change rules in 2026, including zero-fee options, online steps, exact charges, any hidden restrictions, and smart tips to save money. With Emirates Airlines’ date change policy, you can modify your flight date, time, or even destination before departure on most ticket types.
However, any kind of change must be made at least 24 hours before the original flight departure for online processing. Changes within 24 hours are only possible via Emirates Contact Centres or airport counters and may incur higher fees. Post-departure changes are not permitted – the ticket becomes a no-show.
Rescheduling your Emirates flight is straightforward and easy if you follow these steps:
Visit the official Emirates website (emirates.com) and click on “Manage Booking” at the top of the homepage.
Enter your 6-character Booking Reference (PNR) and your last name exactly as it appears on your confirmation email.
You can also log in to your Emirates Skywards account to instantly view all your upcoming trips.
Emirates’ date change fee varies by fare type, cabin, route, and timing. Below is the latest 2026 fee structure:
| Fare Type / Cabin | Change Fee (Long-Haul) | Change Fee (Short-Haul/Regional) | Same-Day Confirmed | Fare Difference |
| First Class Flex Plus | $0 | $0 | Free | No if same class |
| First Class Flex/Saver | $0–$200 | $0–$200 | Free | Yes |
| Business Class Flex Plus | $0 | $0 | Free | No if same class |
| Business Class Flex | $200–$400 | $150–$300 | $100–$200 | Yes |
| Business Saver/Special | $400–$750 | $300–$600 | Not available | Yes |
| Economy Flex Plus | $0 | $0 | Free (select routes) | No if same class |
| Economy Flex | $200–$400 | $150–$300 | $200 | Yes |
| Economy Saver | $300–$600 | $250–$500 | Not available | Yes |
| Economy Special/Promo | $500–$1,000 or not allowed | $400–$800 or not allowed | Not available | Yes |
| Skywards Award (miles) | 5,000–25,000 miles | 5,000–15,000 miles | Not available | Taxes may change |
Emirates waives change fees and fare differences during major travel disruptions such as heavy fog in Dubai, European ATC strikes, or typhoons. Official travel waivers are always published on emirates.com.
Change fees are waived with a valid medical certificate or the death certificate of an immediate family member.
Emirates maintains a highly flexible policy history – check the latest travel updates page for active waivers.
However, you can change your Emirates flight date online up to 24 hours before departure. Within 24 hours, contact Emirates or visit the airport.
If your new flight is more expensive than the original, you must pay the additional amount. If cheaper, you receive a travel voucher valid for 2 years.
When Emirates cancels your flight, you will be rebooked automatically or offered a full refund plus compensation where applicable under EC261 or local laws.
Cash refunds take 7–30 days, depending on payment method. Travel vouchers are issued instantly.
Use "Manage Booking" on emirates.com or call the contact centre. Within 24 hours of booking, changes are completely free on all fares.
We are not affiliated with Emirates Airlines, Emirates Skywards, or any official Emirates entity. CheapFlyFinder.com is an independent third-party travel support service that assists passengers with changes such as cancellations, refunds, name corrections, date changes, and rebooking. For the most accurate and official information, please visit emirates.com or contact Emirates directly.
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