New Delhi: Air India and Air India Express have extended the suspension of flights to and from three major Saudi Arabian cities, Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam, until November 14, 2026, citing the prevailing security situation in the region.

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The airlines issued a fresh travel advisory on Friday (October 30), announcing revised suspension dates and offering affected passengers options for free rescheduling or full refunds.

In a statement shared on 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)."

The latest announcement extends the restrictions imposed earlier this month. On October 24, the airline had announced that services to and from Riyadh and Dammam would remain suspended until November 7, while flights connecting Jeddah were scheduled to remain suspended until October 31.

Free rebooking and full refunds for affected passengers

To minimise inconvenience, the airlines have introduced special waiver provisions for passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted.

Travellers with confirmed tickets issued on or before October 30 for journeys scheduled up to November 14 can either reschedule their flights once without additional charges or request a full refund.

The complimentary rebooking facility is available for travel until November 29, subject to seat availability.

"Guests holding confirmed bookings issued on or before 30 October 2026 for travel up to 14 November 2026 may avail a one-time complimentary rebooking, subject to availability, for travel up to 29 November 2026, or opt for a full refund upon cancellation of their booking. 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 stated.

The airlines said their customer support teams were available through contact centres and city booking offices to assist passengers with cancellations, refunds and revised travel arrangements.

Indian Consulate steps up assistance for stranded Umrah pilgrims

The prolonged suspension has also affected Indian nationals travelling to Saudi Arabia, including Umrah pilgrims facing difficulties returning home.

In response, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has intensified assistance to stranded travellers through round-the-clock control rooms operating in Jeddah and Makkah.

Working alongside Indian community organisations and volunteers, consular officials are coordinating the distribution of food, essential medicines and other emergency assistance to those in need.

The mission is also engaging with Indian airlines to address refund-related concerns and helping Umrah tour operators explore alternative flights to India.

However, the availability of alternative arrangements depends on vacant seats, prevailing ticket prices and the policies of individual airlines.

The consulate has advised affected passengers to remain in regular contact with their airlines, travel agents and Umrah service providers to obtain updates on cancellations, refunds and rebooking options.

Indian diplomatic officials said efforts were continuing in coordination with airlines and other stakeholders to facilitate the return of stranded nationals.

Houthi attacks heighten security concerns in Saudi Arabia

The extension comes amid heightened regional tensions following reported Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabian infrastructure.

On October 23, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed that the group had targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, along with energy facilities, refineries and other aviation and military installations across Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi-led coalition subsequently claimed that it had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis towards Riyadh.

The developments have raised concerns over aviation security in the region, prompting airlines to reassess flight operations and passenger safety.

Passengers planning to travel between India and Saudi Arabia have been advised to check the latest flight status and contact their respective airlines before proceeding to airports.