Southern Routing via Mediterranean/Egypt/Saudi FIR

Southern alternative that routes down the Mediterranean, across North Africa via Egypt FIR, then through Saudi FIR and Red Sea approach into UAE. Adds roughly 15–20 minutes versus the northern routing but meaningfully reduces advisory-zone exposure: it stays south of the Iraq FIR and well clear of Iranian airspace. Flydubai and ad-hoc charter operators frequently file this path. Preferred when EASA or UK CAA bulletins flag elevated Iraq or Iran advisory notices.

Few carriers on this corridor

Egypt FIR (HECC) and Saudi FIR (OEJD) are operationally stable; Libya FIR (HLLL) to the west is avoided on this path. Monitor Saudi FIR NOTAMs during major religious events when FIR capacity can tighten.