Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport began restoring limited flight operations on Sunday, Oct. 25, after a two-week closure, as Yemen’s Houthi movement renewed warnings that it considers the airport a military target.
Terminal 1 has been designated for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 will handle international services operated by Saudi national carriers, according to an airport announcement reported by Gulf Business. Passengers were advised to confirm their flight status with airlines before travelling to the airport.
The announcement marks a limited return of civilian air traffic rather than a full restoration of normal operations. Several foreign airlines have continued to cancel or suspend Saudi routes amid the deteriorating security situation.
Houthis Say Airport Remains a Target
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree warned airlines, airport workers and travellers against using the facility, saying attacks would continue. The statement reflects the group’s position; there was no independent evidence on Sunday that a new attack was imminent.
The warning came only hours after the airport outlined its new terminal arrangements, Reuters reported.
Deadly October Attack Forced Closure
Airport operations were suspended on Oct. 10 after a Houthi-claimed attack killed 13 people and wounded more than 300, according to the latest reported toll. It was Saudi Arabia’s deadliest attack in more than a decade.
The airport remained closed as Saudi authorities assessed damage and security risks. The Houthis have increasingly targeted Saudi airports, ports and energy infrastructure with missiles and drones, while Riyadh has intensified strikes on Houthi positions and backed forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognized government.
The reopening is an important step for Saudi Arabia’s main aviation hub, but the renewed threat leaves airlines facing continued operational, insurance and passenger-safety risks.