Edward Marchesi On Saturday evening, October 24, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh announced, via its X page, that air traffic will resume the following day. After two weeks of complete closure following a devastating Houthi attack , Saudi authorities have drawn up a staggered reopening plan for the airport's two terminals.
The decision comes amid significant regional instability: Yemen's Houthis, backed by Iran, have intensified their strikes against strategic targets in the Saudi kingdom, repeatedly hitting key infrastructure. The flight ban has paralyzed both domestic and international air traffic, severely impacting thousands of passengers and the country's trade.
Reopening of the terminals: how they will be used
From October 25, 2026, Terminal 1 will be dedicated exclusively to domestic flights , while Terminal 2 will handle all international flights operated by domestic carriers . This division is designed to optimize security checks and ensure better management of passenger flows, minimizing the risk of further intrusions.
Airlines have already begun rescheduling their itineraries, and airport authorities have announced they have implemented additional security checklists, including explosives detection and more stringent baggage screening. Travelers will be informed via SMS and app notifications, minimizing uncertainty surrounding the final phase of reopening.
Houthi attack: human toll and coalition response
Saturday's attack killed at least 12 people and injured 309 , many of them in critical condition. Coalition spokesman Turki al-Malki called the attack a war crime and announced a "firm" response against the militants. The coalition, led by Saudi Arabia and supporting the internationally recognized Yemeni government, launched a series of targeted airstrikes against Houthi positions in the Taiz area, hitting munitions depots and fortifications.
On the afternoon of the attack, Saudi forces intercepted a ballistic missile southeast of Riyadh, near the Prince Sultan air base, destroying it over Al-Kharj. According to coalition communications, the intervention occurred just minutes after the device was used, demonstrating the Kingdom's air defense capabilities. In total, at least six precision strikes were conducted, aimed at reducing the Houthis' operational capacity in the region.
International reactions and strengthened security measures
The U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia has raised the alert level for its staff, restricting access to Jeddah and Dammam airports. A new protocol has been introduced requiring prior authorization to enter these airports, a measure aimed at protecting U.S. employees in the face of the growing terrorist threat. At the same time, Saudi authorities have intensified identity checks and increased security patrols at all airports across the country.
These actions, combined with the controlled reopening of King Khalid Airport, demonstrate a clear intent to maintain air traffic continuity while ensuring a decisive military response. Authorities have urged travelers to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of law enforcement, while the international community closely monitors the evolving conflict in the Arabian Peninsula.