Airlines extend Riyadh suspensions as Saudi carriers expand networks

Several international airlines have extended flight suspensions to and from Saudi Arabia as disruption linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues, while Saudi carriers press ahead with network expansion.

Air France has suspended services to and from Riyadh until 31 July. KLM has extended cancellations on Riyadh and Dammam routes until6 September, while Lufthansa has halted services to both cities until 24 October.

British Airways is offering refunds for Riyadh flights booked up to 31 October 2026, including for flights still scheduled, and has permanently withdrawn its Jeddah service. Cathay Pacific has also extended the suspension of its four-times-weekly Riyadh route until 26 October, instead of its previously planned 1 September restart. The airline said affected passengers would be able to rebook, reroute or request a refund.

Despite the disruption affecting international carriers, Saudi airlines continue to expand their networks.

Saudia will launch three weekly non-stop flights between Saudi Arabia and Tokyo from 17 November, strengthening connectivity with Japan.

Low-cost carrier Flynas is adding new regional routes, including twice-weekly Riyadh-Aleppo flights from 1 August. The airline has also introduced services between Riyadh and Alexandria, Jeddah and Rabat, and Jeddah and Amman.

Meanwhile, Saudia’s low-cost airline Flyadeal has launched daily services to Hyderabad, India.

Saudi Arabia’s newest airline, Riyadh Air, is continuing its planned expansion, growing its network from initial destinations including London, Jeddah, and Dubai to 11 destinations. The carrier is targeting a network of 100 destinations by the end of the decade.

The evolving schedule changes highlight the importance of flexible booking policies and travel disruption cover for travellers operating in the region.