Houthi Attack on Abha Airport Sparks Flight Cancellations

Flights from the UAE and other regional cities to the Saudi Arabian city of Abha have been cancelled following a Houthi missile attack. The sudden escalation has placed GCC aviation authorities and international travelers on high alert, interrupting a period of relative regional calm.

Flight Cancellations Affect UAE and Saudi Carriers

According to Flightradar24 data, multiple flights scheduled for Monday evening and Tuesday were cancelled due to renewed regional tensions. The disruptions have impacted several major airlines and key travel routes across the Gulf.

Dubai Airports data confirmed that two flydubai flights scheduled to depart from Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 2 to Abha on Tuesday have been cancelled. Within Saudi Arabia, national carrier Saudia cancelled its flights from Abha to Riyadh and Jeddah. Budget carrier flynas also cancelled its Tuesday morning flights to Jeddah, alongside incoming flights from other Saudi cities.

Travelers are advised to check their flight status directly with their airlines before heading to the airport, as carriers continue to monitor the security situation closely.

Details of the Missile Strike on Abha International Airport

The travel disruptions began after Yemen's Houthis targeted Abha International Airport on Monday. The strike came shortly after airstrikes were reported at Sanaa International Airport in Yemen.

"The Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a military operation targeting Abha International Airport, using a number of ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles," Yahya Saree, spokesman of the Houthi military, said in a video statement.

Saree also warned international airlines against flying into Saudi Arabian airspace “until the blockade on Sanaa International Airport is lifted.”

The Saudi Arabian military coalition confirmed it successfully intercepted missiles aimed at the kingdom's southern territories. Abha International Airport serves as a major gateway to the scenic Asir region, a popular hub for domestic tourism and cultural travel.

Geopolitical Impact on Regional Aviation and Tourism

This recent escalation marks a significant departure from the steady peace enjoyed by the region since a truce was established in 2022. The sudden rise in tension has prompted immediate aviation security alerts across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran.

The timing of these events is highly sensitive. Saudi Arabia is currently investing heavily in its Vision 2030 program, aiming to attract millions of global tourists to its luxury Red Sea projects and cultural heritage sites. Continued stability remains essential for the growth of travel, trade, and business across the GCC.

Airlines including Saudia, Emirates, and Qatar Airways are keeping a close watch on official safety updates to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.