Emirates and Flydubai cancelled multiple Saudi services on Thursday amid continuing regional security disruption, while delays affected flights at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports. Travellers should continue checking directly with airlines as schedules remain fluid.
DUBAI: Flight disruptions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia continued on Friday, October 23, as regional security concerns forced airlines to cancel services and adjust schedules.
Emirates, flydubai, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia have reported cancellations affecting routes to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and other Saudi cities.
The disruptions follow Houthi attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport earlier this month. Although the airport has reopened, airlines continue to face operational restrictions and security concerns.
Emirates and flydubai Flights Affected
Emirates cancelled several Dubai services to Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam on Thursday, October 22. However, its flights to Madinah continued operating.
Flydubai also cancelled multiple services connecting Dubai with Riyadh, Dammam, Abha and Ha’il.
The budget carrier has extended cancellations on selected Saudi routes through October 24. Other services remain subject to operational changes.
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Etihad Extends Cancellations Until October 24
Etihad Airways has cancelled flights between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh and Dammam through Saturday, October 24.
Four Jeddah services, EY601, EY603, EY602 and EY604, are also affected.
Meanwhile, Air Arabia has cancelled selected flights connecting Sharjah with Saudi destinations, including Riyadh, Dammam, Abha and Taif.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Airports Report Delays
Flight delays have also affected international arrivals and departures at Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport.
Weather conditions, operational adjustments and regional security restrictions have contributed to disruptions.
Several international airlines have suspended or reduced Saudi services, adding pressure to regional travel schedules.
Impact to Expect
Passengers may face last-minute cancellations, longer travel times and additional rebooking costs.
Travellers should confirm flight status directly with their airline before leaving for the airport. They should also review refund and rebooking options if their flights are cancelled.
Airlines have warned that schedules remain subject to change as regional conditions evolve.
