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Closures and suspensions: what changed
Authorities have extended a closure at Riyadh’s airport and airlines have responded by suspending services. Jeddah has seen additional airlines extend cancellations as well. News outlets report more than 20 carriers impacted and a growing tally of cancelled flights around the kingdom.
Scale of the disruption
Regional coverage cites more than 100 disrupted flights and a report that airport restrictions affected 103 flights and some 15,779 passengers. Several carriers have pushed or removed planned services while others continue to update schedules as the situation evolves.
Why travelers should care
Passengers to and from Saudi Arabia — including those connecting through UAE airports — are experiencing cancellations, forced rebookings and higher fares as demand shifts to alternative routes. Long-haul schedules have also been adjusted, with at least one carrier postponing a long-haul route into next year as a result of the disruptions.
Who is most affected
Direct travelers to Riyadh and Jeddah, passengers with connections through those airports, and anyone on routes operated by the dozens of affected airlines are most at risk. Travelers who planned itineraries over the coming days should assume their flights could be delayed or cancelled until operators and airports confirm normal operations.
What to check next
Before heading to the airport, check your airline’s official flight status and communications, review any rebooking or refund options offered, and monitor the affected airports’ notices. If you booked through an agent or third-party site, contact them for next steps. Consider travel insurance terms if you have coverage that applies to cancellations and re-routing.
Practical tips for affected travelers
Be prepared to accept alternative routings or later flights, and expect fare volatility if you seek last-minute alternatives. Give yourself extra time to make changes and keep receipts if you incur out-of-pocket expenses that may be eligible for reimbursement under your ticket conditions or insurance policy.
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Reporting reviewed from: Gulf News, ITIJ, Time Out Riyadh, Gulf Business, Time Out Jeddah, The Business Standard, Prothom Alo English, Wego Travel Blog, Travel Noire.