Riyadh Airport Resumes Limited Domestic Flights

King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh resumed limited domestic operations on October 21, 2026, nearly two weeks after it closed on October 10 following attacks. Saudia and flynas were among the carriers that operated flights during the partial reopening.

During this phase, airlines were required to obtain prior permission before operating any flight. This measure allowed authorities to manage traffic carefully as the airport gradually returned to service.

International travel remained more restricted. Several major foreign carriers canceled their Riyadh services through mid-November 2026, including Lufthansa and Air France, which means travelers relying on international connections may continue to face disruptions for some time.

Why it matters to the community

For residents and expats in Riyadh, the partial reopening offers some relief for domestic travel, whether for work, family visits, or connecting flights within the Kingdom. However, those planning international trips should confirm the status of their flights directly with their airline before heading to the airport.

At this stage, the reopening is described as limited, so schedules and availability may change. Travelers are advised to check flight confirmations in advance, allow extra time, and stay informed about any further updates affecting operations at the airport.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving