Flight operations at Abha International Airport in Saudi Arabia remained suspended for a fourth consecutive day on Friday, July 17, 2026. The closure has affected international routes operated by UAE carriers flydubai and Air Arabia, resulting in ongoing cancellations between Dubai, Sharjah, and Abha. Despite these international suspensions, Abha continues to maintain limited domestic service, with flights to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina, and Tabuk mostly operating on schedule.
Etihad Airways Faces Multiple Flight Delays
On July 17, Etihad Airways reported delays on its flights between Abu Dhabi and Toronto. Flight EY21 from Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi to Toronto Pearson International Airport was postponed due
to operational issues. Consequently, the return flight EY22 from Toronto to Abu Dhabi experienced a similar delay. Etihad also encountered delays on other long-haul routes, including its flight EY063 from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow on July 16, which was postponed due to technical problems. Additionally, flights bound for Washington, USA, experienced delays on the same day. Etihad has issued an apology for the disruptions and is working to assist affected passengers.
Security Situation Behind Travel Disruptions
The suspension of flights at Abha International Airport follows missile and drone strikes targeting the airport earlier in the week. These attacks are part of ongoing security tensions
near the Saudi-Yemen border. Governments in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States continue to advise travelers to exercise caution in southern Saudi Arabia due to the persistent risk of missile and drone attacks. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office warns that regional hostilities could resume unpredictably, despite diplomatic developments between the US and Iran.
Passenger Guidance and Airline Responses
Travelers scheduled for flights to or from Abha International Airport are advised to remain vigilant regarding flight status updates. Airlines warn of potential extended connection times and suggest using alternative Saudi gateways like Riyadh or Jeddah where possible. Etihad Airways has apologized for
inconvenience and pledged assistance to its customers. Passengers booked on affected routes should engage with their airlines or travel agents to explore rebooking or refund options.
Regional Airline Operations Amid Security Concerns
Several European and Asian carriers have reduced or suspended services to Gulf destinations as a precaution against security and airspace restrictions. Gulf airlines have adjusted their routing to avoid conflict zones over Iraq, Iran, Syria, and Israel. British Airways has extended flexible booking policies for Middle East flights through October 31, 2026, offering refunds or rebooking options without change fees. These measures reflect ongoing uncertainty in regional air travel amid safety concerns.
