Saudi Arabia reopened its main aviation hub on Sunday, October 25, 2026, more than two weeks after deadly strikes by Yemen’s Houthi rebels knocked the facility out of service. CNBC TV18 reported that King Khalid International Airport resumed operations for international and domestic travel as ongoing regional conflict persists.
Earlier on Sunday, Saudi military spokesman Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki stated that air defenses intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile and a drone fired by the Houthis toward the Saudi capital. The facility had been severely damaged in early October when Houthi strikes hit a complex housing two other terminals, resulting in 17 deaths and more than 330 injuries, according to ABC News.
Terminal Reopening and Flight Resumption
King Khalid International Airport announced via social media on Saturday, October 24, 2026, that terminals 1 and 2 would reopen effective Sunday. According to the airport’s schedule, Terminal 1 is designated for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 handles international flights operated by national carriers. Flight monitoring data showed a commercial aircraft taking off from Riyadh early Sunday and heading toward Jeddah.
The reopening follows a phased restoration of services at the facility, which began limited domestic flights the previous week. However, the resumption of international traffic comes as security threats remain acute across the capital.
Continuing Houthi Threats and Regional Escalation
Despite the reopening, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree issued a warning on Saturday, declaring the airport “unsafe” and a continuing “military target.” The Houthi leadership urged international, regional, and local airlines, along with staff and travelers, to avoid King Khalid International Airport, stating that the Saudi regime would bear the consequences of operations at the facility.
The renewed attacks follow the breakdown of a years-long truce during the summer, drawing Saudi Arabia deeper into active hostilities alongside Yemen’s internationally recognized government. The renewed fighting has shifted the focus of the broader regional conflict and exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.