Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh will remain closed until October 17 following a series of attacks, disrupting air travel and leaving thousands of passengers, including Bangladeshi migrant workers, uncertain about their journeys.

The Saudi civil aviation authorities suspended operations to complete safety procedures and ensure the airport’s operational readiness. A notice to airmen (NOTAM) indicates that the closure will remain in effect until 2100 GMT on October 17. 

The shutdown follows successive attacks on Saudi aviation facilities. An attack on October 10 killed 13 people and injured more than 300, while another incident on October 11 killed one person and injured 11 others, according to reports.

The disruption has affected flights between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, a key destination for Bangladeshi expatriate workers and a major source of remittances.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, 10 Dhaka–Riyadh flights had been cancelled, affecting 3,431 passengers, as of October 12. The cancellations involved Saudia, Riyadh Air, Biman Bangladesh Airlines and US-Bangla Airlines.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has suspended its Dhaka–Riyadh services until October 17, while US-Bangla Airlines has cancelled its Riyadh flights until October 21. Both airlines have advised affected passengers to follow official updates regarding revised schedules and travel arrangements. 

The prolonged disruption has raised concerns among migrant workers travelling to Saudi Arabia, particularly those facing job-joining deadlines and visa-related requirements.

Passengers are advised to check directly with their airlines before travelling to the airport, as flight schedules may change depending on the security situation.