Emirates, Etihad and flydubai have extended cancellations on Saudi routes, including Riyadh and Dammam, through Wednesday as disruption following attacks on Saudi aviation infrastructure continues.
DUBAI: Saudi flight cancellations are continuing to disrupt travel between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with Emirates, Etihad Airways and flydubai adjusting schedules following attacks on Saudi aviation infrastructure. Some flydubai services will remain suspended through Wednesday, October 14, 2026, while other airlines have announced cancellations affecting earlier dates.
The disruption follows attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, prompting operational restrictions and widespread changes to regional flight schedules. Travellers heading to Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah and other Saudi destinations are being urged to confirm their flight status before leaving for the airport.
Which UAE airlines have cancelled Saudi flights?
Flydubai has confirmed cancellations affecting flights between Dubai and Riyadh, Dammam and Abha up to and including October 14.
The airline said it is monitoring developments and coordinating with the relevant authorities. Affected passengers can review rebooking and refund options through the Manage Booking section of its website.
Etihad Airways has cancelled selected services between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah through October 13.
The affected flights include services operating from Zayed International Airport, with the airline warning that further changes remain possible as the situation develops.
Emirates has also listed cancellations on several Dubai-Saudi Arabia routes.
These include flights between Dubai and Riyadh on October 11 and 12, alongside selected Dammam and Jeddah services. However, the available schedule updates do not establish that all Emirates or Etihad flights are cancelled through October 14.
Why are Saudi flights being cancelled?
The Saudi flight cancellations follow serious security incidents affecting aviation infrastructure, particularly Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.
Saudi aviation authorities reported casualties and extensive disruption following an attack on October 10. Further security incidents have added uncertainty to airport operations and airline schedules.
The resulting disruption has affected regional travel connections, with airlines making operational decisions based on safety assessments and guidance from the authorities.
What should affected UAE passengers do?
Passengers scheduled to travel between the UAE and Saudi Arabia should check their airline’s official website or mobile application before departing for the airport.
Travellers should also review connecting flights, monitor booking notifications and contact their airline or travel agent to discuss available alternatives.
Flydubai customers can explore refund and rebooking options online, while Etihad and Emirates passengers should consult their respective customer support channels.
As Saudi flight cancellations continue, passengers should avoid assuming that a previously scheduled service will operate without confirmation.
Impact to expect
The disruption could affect business travel, family visits and regional tourism between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Travellers may face additional expenses, longer journeys and changes to important appointments. Airlines could experience increased rebooking demand until affected routes stabilise and regular schedules resume.
