Recent attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia have significantly disrupted travel, prompting schools in Riyadh to transition to online learning and leading foreign governments to issue precautionary warnings. Reports indicate that a wave of assaults targeted key airports in the capital and in Dammam, particularly between October 5 and 11.
During this period, ten attacks were recorded across five airports, resulting in 20 fatalities and hundreds of injuries, according to an analysis by Anadolu based on official reports. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh was the most affected, enduring five attacks, while King Fahd International Airport in Dammam experienced two incidents. Additional assaults occurred at airports in Abha, Jazan, and Najran.
Ongoing Violence in Riyadh and Dammam
The most recent casualties were reported early Monday morning. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) confirmed that an attack on King Khalid International Airport on Sunday resulted in the death of a Pakistani resident and injuries to 11 others, prompting their hospitalization. GACA is currently assessing the extent of the physical damage incurred. Earlier statements from the Saudi-led coalition indicated that an unidentified projectile had struck Terminal 4, sparking a fire, although air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed a cruise missile aimed at the airport.
Later that day, GACA reported fresh damage at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, though they did not provide any details regarding injuries or the magnitude of the destruction.
Casualties from Saturday’s Attack
These incidents follow a particularly deadly attack on Saturday, which left 13 people dead and injured 309. GACA’s initial reports documented 12 fatalities, including four Saudi nationals, among other victims from different countries. However, the Indian Embassy later confirmed that an injured Indian national had succumbed to their wounds, raising the death toll to 13. The injured parties are currently undergoing treatment in various hospitals, with some in critical condition.
The Saudi-led coalition attributed blame for this assault to Yemen’s Houthi group, vowing a decisive response, while the Houthis advised airlines and travelers to avoid Saudi airports, except for those in Mecca and Medina.
Airport Operations and Flight Cancellations
In light of the ongoing violence, GACA temporarily suspended operations at King Khalid International Airport to conduct damage assessments and safety inspections. They promised to provide updates in collaboration with relevant agencies, as inspections continued after the recent attacks. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry urged citizens with cancelled or delayed flights to reach out to Saudi diplomatic missions for assistance.
Many airlines, including Etihad Airways, have canceled select flights between Abu Dhabi and various Saudi destinations from October 11 to 13 due to regional disruptions. SriLankan Airlines also halted all flights to Riyadh until October 18, citing security concerns. Both airlines encouraged passengers to check their flight statuses and wait for further communication.
International Advisories and Safety Concerns
In response to the escalating violence, several foreign governments have updated their travel advisories for Saudi Arabia. The UK has advised its citizens to avoid King Khalid International Airport until it is deemed safe, warning of ongoing threats, cancellations, and airspace closures. Australia has echoed similar sentiments, pressuring travelers to reconsider their plans while also urging caution at airports.
France has called for heightened vigilance and recommended against nonessential travel to Riyadh. Meanwhile, the US has cautioned its citizens to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia, promoting heightened precautions similar to those imposed on government personnel, who require special approval to utilize Riyadh airport.
As these tensions unfold, the escalation in Yemen, particularly since a notable increase in fighting earlier this fall, remains a significant factor. The situation necessitates careful monitoring, particularly as military operations by the Saudi-led coalition continue in response to actions taken by the Houthis.