X for gender on US passport means no entry to UAE or Saudi Arabia

In 2022, the U.S. began allowing an "X" gender marker on passports, but this has caused issues for travelers heading to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, where entry has been denied those with the non-gender-conforming designation. Enilria reports a Delta passenger was unable to check in online for a flight to Dubai and was told at the airport that only male or female genders are permitted.

This policy potentially affects passengers transiting the region, home to Emirates and Etihad. The situation raises questions about Delta's potential joint venture with Riyadh Air.