Major UAE Airlines Cancel Flights to Riyadh Following Deadly Airport Attack

Major UAE airlines, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia, have cancelled multiple flights to and from Riyadh on Sunday and Monday. The widespread flight disruptions follow the temporary closure of King Khalid International Airport after a deadly Houthi rebel attack that resulted in 12 deaths and 309 injuries.

Etihad Airways confirmed several cancellations between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport and Riyadh, affecting flights on both Sunday and Monday, including services EY551, EY552, EY555, EY556, EY559, and EY560. The airline advised passengers to check their flight status and confirmed that support teams are assisting affected travellers.

Flight-tracking data from Flightradar24 also indicated numerous cancellations for Emirates, flydubai, and Air Arabia connecting Dubai and Sharjah to the Saudi capital. Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation temporarily suspended operations to assess damage and conduct safety checks following the attack on Saturday.

Passengers holding tickets for travel to Riyadh are strongly advised to confirm their flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport. Travellers whose journeys have been impacted should reach out to their respective airlines or travel agents to explore rebooking and refund options, as well as to check on any necessary adjustments for onward connections.