Deadly Attacks Disrupt Flights to Saudi Arabia

Deadly attacks on Riyadh’s airport have disrupted flights and raised security concerns in Saudi Arabia. Despite the incident, organisers say two major international conferences will proceed as planned this month.

The attacks killed four people and heavily damaged an airliner, according to the report. The disruption has forced some travelers to seek alternative flights or travel by land. The United Kingdom, France and Germany have also warned their citizens to avoid Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia continues to prepare for major international events as tensions escalate with Iran-backed Houthi forces in neighboring Yemen. The kingdom has faced repeated attacks in recent weeks.

The World Petroleum Congress, which brings together global energy executives and policymakers, is scheduled to run from Sunday through Thursday. Organisers have assured delegates that the event will go ahead as planned, with foreign leaders and ministers expected to attend.

In an email to delegates, organisers highlighted alternative travel routes to Riyadh. One option involves a drive of about four hours from Dammam on Saudi Arabia’s eastern coast.

However, Italian Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin said on Friday that he would not fly to Riyadh for the International Energy Forum Ministerial Meeting. Instead, he plans to participate by video link.

The Future Investment Initiative, Saudi Arabia’s flagship investment conference, will also proceed as scheduled from October 26 to 29. Organisers said security arrangements would cover Riyadh’s airports, conference venues, official hotels and transportation for participants.

Several prominent financial leaders are expected to attend, including JPMorgan chief executive Jamie Dimon and Citi chief executive Jane Fraser. Both financial institutions had not immediately responded to requests for comment.

The Houthi group has warned airliners to avoid Saudi airspace, declaring it a military operations zone following an offensive by the Saudi-backed Yemeni government.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia says it has intercepted numerous ballistic missiles launched by the group. The kingdom has also carried out strikes against missile launcher sites and pledged to protect its territory.

The attacks have created uncertainty for international travel as Saudi Arabia prepares to host major energy and investment gatherings.