Are Umrah Flights Open After Attacks on Riyadh Airport?

Yes, Umrah flights are open and operating via Jeddah.

No, you cannot travel via Riyadh right now. King Khalid International Airport has been closed after the recent attacks.

If your ticket or Umrah package routes you through Riyadh, contact your travel agent or airline today and ask them to move you to a flight into Jeddah (JED). Don’t wait until the day of departure.

At a glance

• ✅ Jeddah: Open, flights operating
• ✅ Madinah: Open, flights operating
• ❌ Riyadh: Closed, do not plan to fly via Riyadh
• 📞 Booked via Riyadh? Call your agent or airline and request a switch to Jeddah

What Happened in Riyadh?

Over the past week, Houthi missile attacks targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. At least 13 people were killed and more than 300 wounded, making it the deadliest attack on Saudi Arabia in over a decade. Saudi air defences intercepted further missiles in the days that followed.

The aviation authority has kept the airport closed while it checks the safety of its facilities, and hundreds of flights have been cancelled. Reports also say that some pilgrims travelling to Makkah were among those hurt. Our thoughts are with everyone affected.

Why this doesn’t stop Umrah

Most Umrah pilgrims never use Riyadh at all. The main gateways are:

• Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International): the main airport for Makkah
• Madinah (Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International): for pilgrims visiting Madinah first

Both are operating, and Saudia and Pakistani carriers are still flying these routes.

If You’re Booked Via Riyadh: What To Do Now

Your flight to Riyadh will not go ahead as planned. Here is the fastest way to fix it.

Step-by-step: switching your flight to Jeddah

1. Contact your Umrah agent first. If you bought a package, they handle the booking and should rebook you.
2. If you booked directly, call your airline. Use their phone line or WhatsApp, as websites may be slow.
3. Ask for a reroute to Jeddah (JED). Use those exact words.
4. Ask about fees. If the airline cancelled your flight, rebooking is normally free or covered.
5. Confirm your onward travel. Make sure your hotel dates in Makkah and Madinah still match your new arrival.
6. Get everything in writing. Ask for the new ticket by email or WhatsApp.

What to ask when you call

• Can you move me to a flight into Jeddah on the same or nearest date?
• Is there any extra charge, or is it covered?
• Will my baggage allowance stay the same?
• If no seats are available, can I get a refund or a credit?

Which Airlines Are Flying for Umrah Flights?

Airline decisions are changing fast, so here’s the current picture:

Tip: Even on open routes, delays can happen. Always check your flight status before leaving for the airport.

Umrah Packages From Pakistan: Good News For Travellers

If you’re searching for Umrah packages from Pakistan, the news is encouraging. Pakistan’s airports authority has confirmed that flights to Saudi Arabia are continuing, with only Riyadh affected.

If you’re flying from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar or Multan, your journey will most likely go straight to Jeddah or Madinah, which are both open.

Questions to ask your Umrah package provider

1. Am I flying into Jeddah or Madinah, or is Riyadh involved anywhere?
2. Is my flight direct or does it connect through another country?
3. What is the refund or rebooking policy if my airline cancels?
4. Can my hotel dates in Makkah and Madinah be adjusted?
5. Will my Umrah visa stay valid if my dates change?

A good agent answers these clearly. If yours doesn’t, that’s worth noting.

Should You Go Ahead With Your Umrah Flight?

That’s a personal decision, and it depends on your situation.

It may make sense to go ahead if:

• You’re flying directly into Jeddah or Madinah
• Your airline is still running your route
• Your package allows free changes if plans shift

It may be wiser to wait if:

• Your route involves Riyadh and your agent can’t offer a Jeddah alternative
• Your airline has already cancelled your flight
• You’re travelling with elderly parents, young children or anyone with health concerns
• Your booking is non-refundable with no date change option

Many people are choosing to postpone by a few weeks rather than cancel completely. That can be a calm and sensible choice.

Planning Ahead: Ramadan and Winter Umrah Packages

Thinking about Umrah packages for 2027 or a winter trip? Demand for Ramadan Umrah is always high and prices tend to rise as the date gets closer.

• Choose flexibility over the lowest price. The cheapest Umrah package isn’t a bargain if you can’t change it.
• Compare what’s included. Flights, visa, hotel distance from the Haram, transport and meals vary between economy, 4-star and 5-star Umrah packages.
• Be careful with unusually cheap offers that appear during uncertain times.

Pre-Flight Checklist

• ✅ Confirm your flight is via Jeddah or Madinah, not Riyadh
• ✅ Check your flight status 24 hours before, and again on the day
• ✅ Save your airline’s phone number and WhatsApp
• ✅ Keep printed and digital copies of your visa, tickets and hotel bookings
• ✅ Consider travel insurance that covers cancellations
• ✅ Follow your government’s travel advice
• ✅ Arrive at the airport a bit earlier than usual

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Umrah flights open right now?

Yes. Flights via Jeddah and Madinah are operating. Riyadh airport is closed, so don’t plan to travel via Riyadh.

I’m booked via Riyadh. What should I do?

Contact your agent or airline immediately and ask to be rebooked via Jeddah. Don’t wait until departure day.

Can I still go for Umrah from Pakistan?

Yes. Flights from Pakistan to Jeddah and Madinah are continuing, and PIA has paused only its Riyadh service.

Will I have to pay to change my flight?

If your airline cancels your flight, rebooking is usually free or you’re offered a refund. Ask your airline or agent about their policy for your specific ticket.

Is it safe to travel for Umrah?

The situation is changing, and no one can promise zero risk. The airport attacks were in Riyadh, but you should follow your government’s travel advice and choose what feels right for you and your family.

Should I book Umrah packages now?

If your trip is months away, you can wait and watch. If you do book, pick a provider with a clear cancellation and rebooking policy.