Air India suspends Saudi Arabia flights until November 14 amid security concerns

Air India and Air India Express have suspended all flights to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam in Saudi Arabia until November 14, 2026, citing the prevailing security situation in the region. The airlines have also announced complimentary rescheduling and full refunds for affected passengers.

In an advisory issued on Friday, the airlines said the suspension would remain in force until November 14, inclusive, as the regional security situation continues to affect flight operations.

Taking to social media platform X, Air India Newsroom said, "Due to the prevailing situation in the region, Air India and Air India Express flights to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam will remain suspended until 14 November 2026 (inclusive)."

Air India Announces Rebooking And Refund Options

The airlines have introduced relief measures for passengers affected by the cancellations. Travellers holding confirmed bookings issued on or before October 30, 2026, for journeys scheduled up to November 14 can opt for a one-time complimentary rebooking, subject to availability, or a full refund upon cancellation.

Under the revised arrangements, passengers can reschedule their journeys for travel up to November 29, 2026.

"Air India guests may rebook to or from any operational Air India station in Saudi Arabia, while Air India Express guests may rebook to or from any operational Air India Express station in Saudi Arabia or Bahrain," the airline said.

The airlines added that their customer assistance teams would remain available through contact centres and city booking offices to help passengers with cancellations, refunds and alternative travel arrangements.

The latest announcement comes six days after the airlines extended the suspension of services to Riyadh and Dammam until November 7, while flights to and from Jeddah were scheduled to remain suspended until October 31.

Indian Consulate Assists Stranded Umrah Pilgrims

Amid the flight disruptions, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has issued an advisory for Indian nationals, particularly Umrah pilgrims affected by the cancellations.

The consulate said it was providing assistance through round-the-clock control rooms in Jeddah and Makkah. With support from Indian community associations and volunteers, the mission is helping those affected with food, essential medicines and other immediate needs.

It is also coordinating with Indian airlines on passenger refunds and connecting Indian Umrah tour operators with airlines continuing to operate services to India.

However, alternative travel arrangements remain subject to seat availability, applicable fares and the respective airlines' guidelines.

The consulate has urged affected travellers to stay in regular contact with their airlines, travel agents and Umrah service providers regarding rebooking and refunds. It added that efforts were continuing to help stranded Indian nationals return home at the earliest opportunity.

Houthi Claims And Missile Interception Add To Regional Concerns

The flight suspensions come amid security concerns following claims by Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree on October 23 that the group had targeted King Khalid Airport in Riyadh, along with energy infrastructure, refineries and other aviation and military facilities across Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi-led coalition, meanwhile, said it had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by the Houthi militia towards Riyadh.

The airlines have cited the prevailing regional situation as the reason for the suspension. However, the advisory did not specify an individual security incident as the direct trigger for the latest extension.

(With ANI inputs)