UAE residents urged to monitor security and flight updates amid regional tensions
UAE residents are being urged to monitor regional security developments and check flight information before travelling, as Saudi Arabia continues to face missile and drone attacks that have disrupted aviation. Residents can receive updates via the Gulf News app, which provides free information.
Security warnings and sleeper cell concerns
A UAE official warned of alleged “sleeper cell” threats during Iranian attacks, with Dr Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi stating that protecting residents and maintaining daily life remained priorities.
Missile interceptions and regional attacks
The Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting three drones, two cruise missiles and a ballistic missile amid continued Houthi attacks. US President Donald Trump said he did not intend to use nuclear weapons against Iran and did not foresee deploying ground troops. Iran’s army chief said the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until Iran’s rights were respected, while the Iran’s Basij chief said artificial intelligence had improved military intelligence and targeting.
Flight disruptions and airline updates
Cirium reported that 552 of 1,178 scheduled Saudi departures on October 15 were cancelled or did not operate, making Riyadh the worst‑affected major airport. Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia reported disruptions to services on several Saudi routes, advising travellers to confirm flight status before leaving. Emirates noted cancellations on services to Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh. Etihad Airways said flights between Abu Dhabi and Dammam and Riyadh were cancelled through October 18, with some Jeddah services also affected. flydubai suspended services to several Saudi destinations, including Riyadh, Dammam and Abha, while some flights to other cities continued. Air Arabia reported cancellations on several Saudi routes from Sharjah, including services to Riyadh, Abha, Dammam and Jeddah. Indian airlines Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo and Akasa Air extended suspensions on selected Saudi routes until dates between October 20 and 24. Australian authorities advised Australians not to travel to Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, and SriLankan Airlines extended suspensions on Colombo–Dammam and Colombo–Riyadh routes until October 24. The Indian Embassy said two Indians injured in the October 10 Riyadh airport attack remained in intensive care, with another in a high‑dependency unit.
Shipping threats and oil prices
UKMTO reported 12 vessel attacks in a week across the Strait of Hormuz, the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, with Hormuz transits remaining about 70 per cent below pre‑conflict levels. On October 16, Brent crude stood at $105.50 a barrel and US WTI at $97.44.
Travel advice: check airline updates and official travel advisories before departure, and follow safety alerts issued by UAE authorities. Regional tensions continue to affect air travel, commercial shipping and energy markets. UAE residents planning trips to Saudi Arabia or elsewhere in the region should check airline updates and official travel advisories before departure, allow extra time for possible disruption and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
