UAE Flight Suspensions Extend Across Saudi Arabia

Major carriers operating in the UAE like Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia have made further flight suspensions and schedule changes to Saudi Arabia due to ongoing security instability in the region. The changes will impact a number of important destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, leaving in doubt who will be able to travel, and who will not.

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Etihad and Emirates Adjust Saudi Routes

Etihad Airways has further announced cancellations of the selected flights from Abu Dhabi to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah days after the move, extending cancelled flights till October 13, 2026. 

Emirates has also scrapped several flights in every direction from Dubai to Tehran, Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah and the holy city of Medina. It is still subject to regular reviews in respect to regional developments in air space.

Flydubai and Air Arabia Revise Schedules

Flydubai announced further flight cancellations to Riyadh services from Dubai until 14 October 2026, and a temporary change in flight operations in Abha and Yanbu. In addition to air routes between UAE and Saudi that are currently suspended or diverted, Air Arabia has canceled a select number of flights between Sharjah and Riyadh, Dammam, Gassim and Jeddah.

Passenger Assistance and Travel Guidance

The impact of the disruption has reportedly led to the cancellation of almost 1,500 flights in major aviation hubs in Saudi Arabia. Saudi officials have already organised emergency bus service for stranded people and aviation authorities have issued advisories cautioning against air travel in the area. 

The impacted travellers are supposed to see official airline updates before travelling and verify they’re eligible for some reimbursement, complimentary rebooking, or some travel vouchers.

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