Qatar Airways Suspends Riyadh and Dammam Services Amid Renewed Disruptions to Saudi Air Travel.
Dubai: Qatar Airways has temporarily halted flights to Riyadh and Dammam as Saudi Arabia continues to experience widespread aviation disruptions following a series of attacks across the Kingdom.
The Doha-based airline issued a travel advisory on Tuesday, confirming that it was closely monitoring the evolving situation in Saudi Arabia while coordinating with the relevant aviation authorities.
The carrier announced that services to both Saudi destinations had been suspended because of the prevailing security and operational conditions.
Qatar Airways emphasised that protecting the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members remains its highest priority.
Travellers have been advised to verify their flight schedules through the airline’s official website or mobile application before heading to the airport.
The airline also confirmed that passengers affected by the suspensions would be contacted directly, while additional information and operational updates would be made available through its official communication channels.
Riyadh Airport Closure Extended Until October 17
The Qatar Airways suspension follows Saudi authorities’ decision to extend the temporary closure of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
The airport, which is the second-busiest in Saudi Arabia after Jeddah, has remained closed as aviation authorities carry out necessary safety assessments and operational preparations.
According to the Saudi civil aviation authority, the suspension is intended to allow the completion of procedures required to ensure the safety of airport facilities and confirm their readiness to resume operations.
A subsequent Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) indicated that King Khalid International Airport would remain closed until 2100 GMT on October 17, equivalent to 1 am on October 18 in Saudi Arabia.
The prolonged closure has prompted several airlines operating services to the Saudi capital to cancel, suspend or reschedule flights.
As a result, passengers travelling between Saudi Arabia, other Gulf countries and international destinations continue to face significant disruption.
Airlines are encouraging travellers to monitor official flight information closely, as further schedule adjustments may be announced depending on developments in the region.
Deadly Attacks Trigger Major Disruption to Saudi Aviation
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has remained closed following a deadly attack on Saturday that reportedly claimed 13 lives and left more than 300 people injured.
According to the information provided, the incident was the deadliest attack recorded in Saudi Arabia in more than ten years.
A second attack on Sunday reportedly resulted in one additional death and injuries to nearly a dozen people, further intensifying concerns about aviation security across the Kingdom.
The incidents have caused one of the most serious disruptions to Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector in recent years, forcing airlines to suspend operations, cancel scheduled services and adjust flight routes.
The situation has placed additional pressure on carriers already facing operational challenges caused by the wider Middle East conflict and a substantial increase in jet fuel prices.
International Airlines Face Wider Flight Disruptions
The impact of the security situation has extended beyond Saudi Arabian and Gulf-based airlines, with several carriers from Europe and Asia also suspending services to affected destinations.
On Sunday, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an advisory urging American airlines to exercise caution when operating flights to or through Saudi Arabian airspace.
Similarly, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) expanded its warning concerning Saudi airspace on Friday, citing potential threats from missile and drone attacks.
These advisories reflect growing international concern about aviation safety amid continuing regional tensions.
For passengers travelling across the Gulf, the situation means flights to Riyadh and other Saudi destinations may face sudden cancellations, delays or schedule adjustments as airlines respond to changing security conditions and airport restrictions.
Qatar Airways has advised customers to confirm their flight status through its official website or mobile application before leaving for the airport.
The airline also urged passengers whose flights have been affected to await direct communication regarding cancellations, alternative arrangements and further travel updates.
