Massive Travel Chaos Hits the Middle East including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Beyond as Saudia, Flynas, Airblue, Air Arabia and Other Airlines Report 34 Cancellations and 959 Delays Across Jeddah, Riyadh, Medina, Dubai and More

Published on December 10, 2025

Massive travel chaos has struck the Middle East, affecting major airports across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and beyond. Airlines including Saudia, Flynas, Airblue, Air Arabia, and others have reported a staggering 34 cancellations and 959 delays. The disruption is widespread, with major cities such as Jeddah, Riyadh, Medina, and Dubai all experiencing significant flight issues. Saudia, in particular, is heavily impacted, contributing to many of the cancellations and delays. Passengers flying through these airports are facing uncertainty and frustration, as they navigate through crowded terminals and changing flight schedules.

While some travelers are still waiting for their flights to depart, others are scrambling to find alternatives or rebook. As the situation unfolds, airlines and airports are working to manage the chaos, but travelers are advised to stay informed and prepared for further disruptions.

Total Delays and Cancellations Across the Region

Across all these airports, a combined total of 959 delays and 34 cancellations have been reported across Middle East. The bulk of the delays are affecting flights to and from Saudia, which accounts for a significant number of both cancellations and delays. Other airlines, including Flynas, FlyDubai, and Air Arabia, also face disruptions, although these airlines have generally had fewer cancellations.

Affected Airports, Cities, and Airlines

King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

King Abdulaziz International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Saudi Arabia, is experiencing significant disruptions today. The airport has reported 349 delays and 22 cancellations. Airlines including Saudia, SpiceJet, Airblue, Flynas, and FlyDubai are among those affected.

• Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has seen 21 cancellations and 168 delays, accounting for a large portion of the disruptions.
• SpiceJet and Airblue also had some flight issues, with SpiceJet experiencing 1 cancellation and 14 delays, while Airblue reported 1 cancellation and 2 delays.

King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport is also struggling today, with 269 delays and 5 cancellations reported. The disruptions mainly affect Saudia, Flynas, and flyadeal.

• Saudia reported 5 cancellations and 114 delays.
• Flynas and flyadeal each had delays, with Flynas seeing 75 delays and flyadeal 42.

Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport, Medina, Saudi Arabia

Medina’s Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport is another hotspot for travel delays, seeing 55 delays and 4 cancellations today. Passengers flying with Saudia, Flynas, and FlyDubai are experiencing the worst delays at this airport.

• Saudia recorded 4 cancellations and 14 delays, while Flynas had 12 delays.
• FlyDubai recorded 2 delays, and flyadeal had 8 delays.

Dubai International Airport, UAE

Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest and most connected airports, is also facing heavy delays and cancellations today. The airport has reported 286 delays and 3 cancellations.

• Saudia was once again a major player in the disruptions, with Saudia having 21 cancellations and 168 delays.
• Other affected airlines include Flynas (with 75 delays) and flyadeal (42 delays).

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

For passengers across Middle East affected by the delays and cancellations, there are several steps they can take:

1. Contact Airlines for Updates: It is essential to stay in contact with the airline for real-time updates on the status of your flight. Most airlines, including Saudia and Flynas, provide regular updates via their apps and websites.
2. Know Your Rights: Depending on the nature of the disruption, passengers may be entitled to compensation, including food vouchers, accommodation, and alternative flights. Check with the airline staff or the official government aviation website for guidance.
3. Consider Alternative Routes: If your flight has been canceled, check with your airline or travel agent to explore alternate routes or nearby airports. For instance, passengers traveling to Jeddah may look into flights via Riyadh or Dubai.
4. Prepare for Delays: For passengers still waiting to board, it’s wise to pack necessary supplies such as snacks, water, and entertainment. Some airports, such as Dubai International and King Abdulaziz, have lounges offering a more comfortable environment while you wait.
5. Stay Updated on Weather and Operational Issues: Sometimes disruptions are caused by external factors such as weather or air traffic control issues. Keeping track of such developments can help passengers make more informed decisions.

Conclusion

The travel disruption affecting major airports in the Middle East today, including King Abdulaziz, King Khalid, Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz, and Dubai International, is causing widespread inconvenience. With nearly 959 delays and 34 cancellations, many passengers will need to navigate their journeys carefully. By staying informed and proactive, travelers can minimize the impact of these delays and cancellations. For those whose flights have been canceled, seeking alternative routes and understanding your rights can help in managing the situation.

Source: FlightAware and Affected Airports