Saudi Arabia Flight Cancellations: 208 Flights Grounded Amid Security Crisis [Live Update] (2026)

The skies over Saudi Arabia have been in turmoil, with a wave of flight cancellations sweeping across the country, grounding Saudia, Etihad, and other airlines. The disruptions have been particularly severe in the southern regions, with Abha Airport bearing the brunt of the cancellations, followed by King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah. This crisis has not only stranded thousands of passengers but has also raised questions about the future of travel in the region.

The Houthi Attack and Its Aftermath

The cancellations were triggered by a Houthi missile and drone attack on Abha Airport, an incident that has heightened security concerns in southern Saudi Arabia. The Houthi movement, based in Yemen, claimed responsibility for the attack, describing it as retaliation for earlier airstrikes on Sanaa International Airport. This attack has not only caused immediate disruptions but has also led to a series of cascading effects, including travel advisories from various governments and a tightening of immigration regulations in Saudi Arabia.

The Impact on Travelers

The travel advisories issued by Canada, the UK, and the US do not suggest that Saudi Arabia is off-limits to visitors, but they do emphasize the need for caution, especially in the southwest. The US, in particular, has issued a Level 3 advisory, urging travelers to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia, with some southern areas under a stricter "Do Not Travel" warning. This advisory is a stark reminder of the ongoing security risks and the potential for further disruptions.

Saudi Arabia's Response

Despite the disruptions, Saudi Arabia is pressing ahead with its travel and immigration reforms. The Saudi Cabinet, led by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, has approved the State Revenues Law and introduced a new training visa for international trainees. These moves are designed to attract global talent, strengthen workforce development, and advance the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals. However, the government is also tightening enforcement of immigration regulations, with the Ministry of Interior warning that expatriates who overstay their visas may face fines, jail time, and deportation.

The Worst-Hit Airports

King Khalid Airport in Riyadh has been the most disrupted, with 83 delays and 54 cancellations. Saudia, the national carrier, has been the hardest hit, accounting for nearly 75% of all cancelled flights. King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah has also been severely affected, with 67 delays and 60 cancellations. Abha Airport, outside the kingdom's largest hubs, has seen 51 cancellations, most of which were by Saudia.

The Affected Airlines

Saudia, flyadeal, Flynas, and FlyDubai have been the most impacted airlines, with significant cancellations and delays. The disruptions have been particularly severe at Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, and Gizan airports. Other airlines, including Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Etihad Airways, Air France, Air Cairo, Air Arabia, Berniq Airways, and Nile Air, have also reported operational disruptions at one or more affected airports.

What Travelers Can Do

Affected travelers are advised to check their airline's latest flight status before leaving for the airport, allow additional travel time, and stay in contact with their airline for rebooking or refund options. They should also keep notifications enabled through their airline's mobile app or SMS service and remain alert for official operational updates and security notices. Flexible travel arrangements are recommended, especially for those with connections through affected Saudi cities.

Conclusion

The flight cancellations in Saudi Arabia are a stark reminder of the challenges that the travel industry faces in an increasingly volatile world. While the immediate impact is on travelers, the broader implications are far-reaching, affecting not only the travel industry but also the economic and political landscape of Saudi Arabia. As the country continues to navigate these disruptions, the focus on security and travel reforms will likely intensify, shaping the future of travel in the region.