Emirates reverses decision to suspend all passenger flights

Dubai carrier Emirates reversed on Sunday its decision to suspend all passenger flights shortly after it said it would halt operations from March 25 amid the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The airline said it "received requests from governments and customers to support the repatriation of travellers" and will continue to operate passenger flights to 13 destinations, down from its usual 159.

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The announcement was made just hours after a previous statement said the carrier "will have temporarily suspended all its passenger operations" by March 25.

Gulf countries have imposed various restrictions to combat the spread of the virus, particularly in the air transport sector.

The UAE has stopped granting visas on arrival and forbidden foreigners who are legal residents but are outside the country from returning.