Several hundred Israeli passengers held up in Dubai airport: report
UAE said to have suspended tourist visas for Israeli travelers late on Sunday
Several hundred Israeli passengers who landed in Dubai on Monday morning were denied entry into the United Arab Emirates, Israeli media report.
According to the reports, the incident, which saw only Israelis holding other passports as well to enter, was caused by a change in the Emirati visa policy.
Under a visa exemption agreement reached earlier and already ratified by both states, Israelis and Emiratis will be able travel between the two countries as tourists without having to apply for a visa.
In the meantime, the UAE introduced tourist visas for Israelis that are available through airlines and travel offices.
However, according to reports in the Israeli media, the UAE changed its approach late on Sunday, suspending the visas for Israelis.
The change of heart reportedly resulted from warnings that the UAE could be designated as a "red" state, which would prevent Emiratis from entering Israel.
At least two flights set to take off from Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv to head to Dubai were reportedly delayed Monday morning.