King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah continued operating with delays and cancellations through October 2026, prompting renewed attention to the rights passengers hold when flights are disrupted. On 25 October 2026, the airport recorded 226 delayed flights and 74 cancellations, with departure delays reported at 29% and arrival delays at 27%.
Travellers are advised to check their flight status through the operating airline's official website or application before heading to the airport, as schedules remained subject to change.
Your rights if a flight is cancelled
When an airline cancels a flight, passengers may accept an alternative flight or request a full refund, including any additional fees paid. Cancellation compensation depends on how early the notice is given: 50% of the ticket value or remaining journey value if notified between 60 and 14 days before departure; 75% if notified between 14 days and 24 hours before departure; and 150% if notified within 24 hours of departure.
Your rights during delays
If a delay exceeds two hours, the passenger may request to terminate the contract and receive a fee-free ticket refund. Airlines are required to provide refreshments after one hour of delay, a suitable meal after three hours, and accommodation after six hours when needed. A delay exceeding five hours may be treated as a cancellation for the purposes of passenger rights.
Delay compensation is set at 50 SDR when the delay exceeds three hours and 150 SDR when it exceeds six hours.
With disruptions affecting hundreds of flights, knowing these entitlements helps residents and visitors in Jeddah make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary costs, and secure refunds or compensation they are due.
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