Airlines extend Saudi Arabia flight suspensions despite partial Riyadh airport reopening

International airlines have extended flight suspensions to Saudi Arabia following regional tension and drone attacks by Yemen based Houthi rebels. The National and The New York Times report that King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has partially reopened after an earlier closure this month. According to The National, the airport began operating domestic flights from Terminal 1 and international flights from Terminal 2 on October 25. [1][3]

Major carriers continue to alter their schedules because of safety concerns. The National reported that Etihad Airways extended route cancellations to Riyadh and Dammam into November. The same outlet stated that flydubai and Emirates suspended several services to Saudi Arabia until October 29. CNBC and Al Jazeera both report that Saudi Arabia intercepted missiles and drones launched by Iran backed Houthis as regional fighting continues. [1][5][6]

As FTMQ Travel reported earlier, Air India and Air India Express previously suspended flights to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam through October 24 after more than 15 airlines halted services to the country. Saudi Arabia covers the majority of the Arabian Peninsula and relies heavily on major aviation hubs in Riyadh and Jeddah, as detailed in geographic records. [7][9]

The disruptions continue to impact international travel and major events across the region. The New York Times reported that Houthi forces have threatened further strikes despite the partial reopening of Riyadh airport. Additionally, the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile reported that the Dakar rally will not take place in Saudi Arabia in 2027, but plans to return to the kingdom in 2028. [3][4]