Etihad Airways and flydubai have cancelled flights to Saudi Arabia following attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, as airlines across the region adjust their schedules amid continuing operational disruptions.
Etihad cancelled eight flights between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh scheduled for October 9 and 10, citing disruptions at the Saudi capital’s main airport.
Six services were cancelled on Friday, affecting three return trips between Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Two additional flights, covering one return trip, were cancelled for Saturday.
The Abu Dhabi-based airline said the situation remained dynamic and warned that further schedule changes were possible as it continued monitoring developments.
Flydubai also suspended services to Riyadh and Yanbu through October 10, while flights to Abha were cancelled through October 11.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and remain in close coordination with the relevant authorities,” a flydubai spokesperson said.
The airline said customers would be informed of any further changes through its official communication channels.
The cancellations follow several days of disruption at King Khalid International Airport after attacks on October 8 killed three Saudi nationals and injured several other people, according to the General Authority of Civil Aviation.
The authority said the first attack targeted airport facilities, while the second targeted an aircraft belonging to Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s national carrier. Several citizens and residents of different nationalities were also injured.
Saudia confirmed that one of its employees had died in an incident at the airport. The airline paid tribute to Captain Hamoud Ali Alkalthami following his death.
The incidents have prompted airlines to reassess their operations as authorities respond to the security situation. The latest cancellations affect passengers travelling between the UAE and several Saudi destinations, including the capital.
What affected passengers should do
Etihad has urged customers to check their flight status through its official website, etihad.com, and confirm their booking details before travelling to the airport.
The airline apologised for the disruption and said its teams were working to assist affected passengers with alternative travel arrangements.
Customers can contact Etihad through the help section of its website, which provides local telephone numbers, live chat and social media support.
“The safety and comfort of our guests and crew is our number one priority,” the airline said.
Flydubai has advised affected passengers to visit its website to review available refund and rebooking options. Customers who purchased tickets through travel agents should contact those agents directly to discuss their arrangements.
The airline also apologised for the inconvenience and thanked passengers for their understanding.
Travellers scheduled to fly to Saudi Arabia over the coming days have been advised to check directly with their airline for the latest updates before leaving for the airport, as further changes remain possible.
