New Delhi: Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights connecting India with three major Saudi Arabian destinations until November 14, 2026, citing the prevailing situation in the region. The decision affects services to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam, potentially disrupting travel plans for passengers with confirmed bookings during the affected period.
The airlines have announced a one-time complimentary rebooking facility or a full refund for eligible passengers whose journeys are affected by the suspension. The relief measures are intended to help customers make alternative travel arrangements without incurring additional charges.
The suspension will remain in force through November 14, inclusive. Passengers scheduled to fly between India and the affected Saudi cities during this period have been advised to check their flight status and contact the respective airline for assistance.
Three Saudi destinations affected by the suspension
The temporary suspension covers Air India and Air India Express services connecting India with Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam.
These destinations are important travel links for passengers travelling between India and Saudi Arabia for work, business, family visits and religious purposes. The suspension could therefore affect a considerable number of travellers, particularly those who have already booked tickets for journeys scheduled before November 15.
The airlines have not indicated that the suspension will extend beyond November 14. However, passengers should monitor official airline communications for any further announcements or changes to flight schedules.
Who is eligible for a free rebooking or full refund?
Passengers with confirmed bookings issued on or before October 30, 2026, are eligible for the announced relief measures, provided their scheduled travel date falls on or before November 14.
Eligible customers have two options:
- One-time complimentary rebooking: Passengers can reschedule their journey without paying a rebooking fee, subject to seat availability.
- Full refund: Passengers who no longer wish to travel can cancel their eligible bookings and request a full refund.
The complimentary rebooking facility allows affected customers to shift their travel plans to a later date. The revised journey must be scheduled no later than November 29, 2026.
Passengers should note that the rebooking facility is available only once under the announced arrangement. Those planning to change their travel dates should therefore check seat availability and confirm their preferred itinerary before requesting the change.
Air India and Air India Express offer different alternatives
Although both airlines are offering complimentary rebooking and full refunds, the alternative destinations available to passengers differ.
Air India passengers
Customers holding eligible Air India tickets can reschedule their journeys to or from any operational Air India station in Saudi Arabia.
This gives passengers the option of considering another Saudi destination served by the airline, depending on operational availability and available seats.
Air India Express passengers
Air India Express passengers can rebook their journeys to or from any operational Air India Express station in Saudi Arabia or Bahrain.
The inclusion of Bahrain provides an additional alternative for passengers who may be unable to travel through their originally booked Saudi destination.
However, all alternative arrangements remain subject to the availability of seats and the operational status of the relevant stations. Passengers should contact the airline before making separate travel arrangements.
How to request a rebooking or refund
Air India and Air India Express have advised affected passengers to contact their respective customer service teams or visit their city booking offices for assistance.
Passengers should keep their booking details and ticket information ready when contacting the airlines. They should also clearly indicate whether they want to reschedule their journey or cancel the booking and seek a refund.
Those who booked through travel agents or other booking platforms may also need to contact the relevant service provider for assistance with their reservations.
The airlines have said their customer service teams are available to help passengers with alternative travel arrangements and refund requests.
Air India and Air India Express customer care numbers
Passengers can use the following contact numbers to seek assistance regarding the suspension:
| Airline | Customer care contact |
|---|---|
| Air India | +91 11 69329333 |
| Air India | +91 11 69329999 |
| Air India Express | +91 124 6935600 |
Passengers are advised to contact the appropriate airline before travelling to the airport. Checking the latest flight status is particularly important for those whose journeys fall within the suspension period.
What affected passengers should do before travelling
Passengers booked on flights to or from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam up to November 14 should first verify whether their scheduled service has been suspended.
Those who qualify for the relief measures can then decide whether to use the complimentary rebooking option or request a full refund. Customers choosing to rebook should consider the November 29 deadline and check the availability of alternative flights.
Travellers should avoid proceeding to the airport without confirming their flight status, as the temporary suspension may affect previously issued itineraries.
Airlines offer relief amid regional uncertainty
The suspension of services to the three Saudi destinations is likely to create uncertainty for passengers travelling between India and the region. By offering a one-time free rebooking option and full refunds, Air India and Air India Express are providing affected customers with alternatives during the disruption.
For now, passengers should rely on official airline updates for information about flight operations and revised schedules. Those with bookings during the affected period should contact their airline promptly to avoid last-minute inconvenience.