UAE: UAE airlines flydubai and Etihad Airways have extended flight cancellations to several Saudi Arabian destinations following a series of Houthi attacks on airports across the kingdom.
The disruptions have affected services to major Saudi cities, including Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah and Abha, leaving passengers facing travel uncertainty as airlines continue to monitor the regional security situation.
Flydubai Cancels Flights Until October 14
Flydubai has cancelled flights to Abha, Dammam and Riyadh up to and including October 14, a spokesperson for the airline confirmed on Monday, October 12.
“We continue to monitor the situation closely and we will update our customers through our official channels regarding any amendments to our flight schedules,” the spokesperson said.
Passengers affected by the cancellations can visit the Manage Your Booking section on the airline’s official website to review refund and rebooking options. Customers who booked through travel agents have been advised to contact their agents directly.
Etihad Extends Cancellations on October 12 and 13
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has also extended cancellations between Abu Dhabi and three Saudi cities — Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh — for October 12 and 13 due to regional disruption.
Flights Cancelled on October 12
The airline cancelled the following services on Monday:
- Abu Dhabi–Dammam: EY575 and EY573, along with return flights EY576 and EY574.
- Abu Dhabi–Jeddah: EY601 and EY603, along with return flights EY602 and EY604.
- Abu Dhabi–Riyadh: EY559 and EY555, along with return flights EY560 and EY556.
Flights Cancelled on October 13
Etihad also cancelled selected services scheduled for Tuesday:
- Abu Dhabi–Dammam: EY575 and return flight EY576.
- Abu Dhabi–Jeddah: EY603 from Abu Dhabi, and return services EY602 and EY604.
- Abu Dhabi–Riyadh: EY551 and return flight EY552.
Etihad said the situation remained dynamic and further changes to its flight schedule were possible.
Houthi Attacks Disrupt Saudi Air Travel
Flights across Saudi Arabia have faced significant disruption following a series of attacks on airports. Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport has been among the most affected, with operational suspensions and widespread cancellations reported.
Airports in Jeddah, Dammam and other parts of the kingdom have also experienced disruption. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for several strikes.
The situation has affected regional and international connections, with passengers facing delays, missed connections and changes to travel plans. Several international airlines have also suspended or adjusted services to Riyadh amid continuing security concerns.
Advice for Passengers
Travellers are advised to check their flight status directly with their airline before leaving for the airport. Passengers should also monitor official airline announcements for updated schedules, rebooking options and refund information.
Further cancellations and schedule changes remain possible as airlines assess security conditions and await updates from aviation authorities.
