Gulf Air Cancels Riyadh Flights Until 17 October Amid Saudi Airport Shutdown

Gulf Air has cancelled all flights to and from Riyadh until 17 October 2026 after operations at Saudi Arabia's King Khalid International Airport were suspended amid reported Houthi attacks on the facility.

The Bahraini national carrier announced the move on Monday, 12 October, advising affected passengers to contact its customer service team for assistance with rebooking.

The disruption follows a series of reported Houthi attacks targeting Riyadh's international airport in recent days, raising concerns over flight operations and passenger safety.

Gulf Air Confirms Riyadh Flight Cancellations

In an official travel advisory posted on X, Gulf Air confirmed that flights arriving at and departing from Riyadh (RUH) would be cancelled from 12 October until 17 October 2026.

The airline advised affected travellers to contact its customer service team for assistance with rebooking options.

Gulf Air also apologised for the inconvenience caused by the cancellations and thanked passengers for their understanding.

The announcement did not provide details about alternative flight arrangements, refund eligibility or whether additional cancellations could follow beyond the stated period.

Security Fears Behind Riyadh Airport Shutdown

The cancellations come amid heightened security concerns following a series of Houthi attacks on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport.

Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) reportedly extended the suspension of airport operations on Monday, 12 October, as authorities continued safety inspections following the attacks.

The disruption extends beyond Gulf Air, with the suspension affecting airlines serving the Saudi capital. The situation has created uncertainty for passengers travelling through Riyadh, particularly those relying on connecting services. With airport operations still suspended, airlines may need to adjust their schedules as authorities assess when flights can safely resume.

The airport has reportedly been targeted in multiple attacks in recent days, including strikes on 10 and 11 October. The incidents resulted in deaths and injuries, prompting authorities to maintain restrictions while assessing the safety of airport facilities and surrounding operations.

The airport is regarded as a major gateway to Riyadh, serving international and domestic flights. Its continued closure has implications for travellers using the Saudi capital as either their destination or a connecting point.

While Gulf Air's cancellations coincide with the airport disruption, the airline's published advisory does not explicitly identify the attacks as the reason for its decision.

What Can Stranded Gulf Air Passengers Do?

Passengers scheduled to travel between Bahrain and Riyadh during the affected period are advised to check their bookings and contact Gulf Air directly.

The airline has confirmed that its Global Contact Centre can assist travellers with rebooking options, although its announcement does not specify whether passengers will be offered refunds or alternative routes.

Travellers should also regularly check the airline's official website and social media channels for further announcements, including any changes to scheduled flight operations, before heading to the airport.

Passengers with connecting flights, hotel reservations or bookings made through travel agencies may also need to contact their respective providers to discuss possible changes to their travel arrangements.

Gulf Air and Saudi aviation authorities are expected to issue further announcements on flight operations as the situation develops.