Passengers Stuck in Sharjah, Dammam, Riyadh as Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Saudia, FlyDubai and More Airlines Face 26 Cancellations and 255 Delays, Leaving Travelers in Utter Chaos in UAE, Saudia Arabia and others

Published on December 20, 2025

Travel chaos has erupted across the UAE and Saudi Arabia as major airlines, including Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Saudia, and FlyDubai, battle with an overwhelming number of flight cancellations and delays. Passengers traveling from key airports such as Sharjah International Airport, King Fahd International Airport (Dammam), and King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh) have been hit hard by disruptions, with more than 26 cancellations and 255 delays reported. As thousands of travelers face extended waiting times and uncertainty, here’s a breakdown of the situation at these critical hubs.

Total Cancellations and Delays Overview:

Sharjah International Airport: A Struggling Hub

Sharjah International Airport, one of the busiest in the UAE, is facing significant disruptions. With 73 flight delays and 2 cancellations, passengers are struggling to make their way through the airport as the delays mount. The airport serves as a key transit point for both domestic and international flights, with many travelers stuck in a cycle of uncertainty.

• Delays: 73
• Cancellations: 2

The situation has sparked frustration among travelers, many of whom have had to adjust their plans or face uncertain rebooking options. For those traveling on Air Arabia and FlyDubai flights, the airport’s operational strain is palpable.

King Fahd International Airport: An Overwhelming Situation

Over in Dammam, King Fahd International Airport is also facing serious challenges. With 7 cancellations and 32 delays, the airport, which serves as a key gateway for both local and international flights, is overwhelmed by the backlog.

• Delays: 32
• Cancellations: 7

Travelers from Qatar Airways and other carriers have been hit hard by the ongoing delays. As airlines attempt to catch up on the growing delays, passengers are advised to remain patient as they await updates on their flights.

King Khalid International Airport: The Worst Hit

In Riyadh, King Khalid International Airport is experiencing the worst disruption. A staggering 17 flight cancellations and 150 delays have affected thousands of passengers, with Saudia and FlyDubai flights leading the list of affected services.

• Delays: 150
• Cancellations: 17

This massive disruption has led to crowded terminals, long lines, and a sense of confusion, as many travelers are left wondering when their flights will take off. The sheer scale of the problem has made it difficult for airport staff to manage, leaving passengers frustrated and uncertain of what to expect next.

What’s Causing These Flight Disruptions?

Weather Woes
The main cause of these disruptions appears to be severe weather conditions across the region. Rainstorms and high winds have forced several airlines to delay or cancel flights, especially those flying out of airports near coastal areas like Sharjah. These weather conditions, while common in the region during certain seasons, have been more intense than usual, impacting flight schedules across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

• Heavy rainfall and storms have led to delays and cancellations.
• Operations at major airports have been affected, particularly in Sharjah and Riyadh.

Airline Operational Hurdles
In addition to weather issues, airline operations have also contributed to the disruption. Some carriers, like Qatar Airways and FlyDubai, have reported staffing shortages and logistical challenges as they work to manage the high volume of passengers.

• Airline scheduling issues have compounded the problem.
• Operational hurdles include overbooked flights and crew availability.

Impact on Passengers: Travel Mayhem

Frustration and Uncertainty
For passengers, the impact has been devastating. Many are left stranded, facing long waits, missed connections, and the possibility of rebooking. Those affected by the cancellations and delays at Sharjah, Dammam, and Riyadh have shared their frustration over the uncertainty that has come with these travel disruptions.

• Thousands of passengers are unable to reach their destinations on time.
• Connections have been missed, forcing many to rearrange their travel plans.

Financial Strain
The financial burden is another concern. Some travelers have had to pay for last-minute hotel accommodations, meals, and transport, as they are forced to wait longer than anticipated for their flights. Passengers traveling for business, holidays, or family events are especially hard-hit, as the delays may result in missed meetings, important events, or family reunions.

• Last-minute hotel bookings and meals are adding to travel costs.
• Affected travelers are incurring unexpected expenses.

Emotional Stress
The emotional toll of such delays is significant, especially for those traveling with children or on important business trips. The stress of not knowing when or if a flight will take off has left many feeling helpless and stressed.

What Can Passengers Do?

Stay Informed
It’s crucial for passengers to stay updated on the status of their flights. Airlines are providing real-time updates on cancellations and delays through their apps, websites, and social media channels. Be sure to check flight statuses frequently and use the airline’s mobile app to get the latest information.

• Check your flight status via the airline’s website or mobile app.
• Stay tuned for email notifications about your flight.

Be Flexible
If your flight has been cancelled or significantly delayed, be ready to be flexible. Many airlines offer the possibility of rebooking or offering vouchers for alternative flights. Ask the airline for the next available seat or ask about options with other carriers.

• Airlines may offer rebooking on alternative flights.
• Ask about vouchers or compensation options.

Prepare for Extended Waiting Times
If you are already at the airport, it’s best to prepare for longer waits. Bring snacks, entertainment, and essential items like chargers, books, or magazines to pass the time. Stay near your gate for the latest announcements.

• Bring snacks, chargers, and entertainment to pass the time.
• Stay close to your departure gate for updates.

Use Travel Insurance
If you’ve purchased travel insurance, check if you are covered for such disruptions. Many policies offer compensation for missed connections, hotel stays, and meal expenses caused by cancellations or delays. This could help alleviate some of the financial strain.

• Check your travel insurance for compensation.
• You may be eligible for reimbursement for extra costs.

Conclusion: A Travel Disruption to Remember

These disruptions at Sharjah, Dammam, and Riyadh airports are a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel. While Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Saudia, and FlyDubai work to recover from the delays, passengers should remain patient and flexible as they navigate through this chaos. For now, staying updated, being prepared for longer waits, and keeping your options open are the best strategies to manage this travel crisis.

Source: Different airports and FlightAware