Biman suspends Riyadh and Dammam flights until 17 October

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has suspended all scheduled flights from Dhaka to Riyadh and Dammam until 17 October, citing security concerns after reported attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia.

In separate press releases issued on Tuesday, the national flag carrier said the suspension was intended to protect passengers amid an evolving security situation. The deadline will follow Bangladesh time, while revised schedules and further updates will be announced as developments unfold. Furthermore, Biman said it was monitoring the situation closely and advised affected passengers to contact its sales centres for ticket reissuance, route changes and travel information. Where necessary, travellers bound for or departing from Saudi Arabia may consider Jeddah and Madinah airports as temporary alternatives.

The disruption has reportedly led to the cancellation of about 61 direct and transit flights, affecting roughly 9,269 passengers, between 10 October and Tuesday morning. Among them were nine direct flights operated by Biman, in addition to services run by US-Bangla Airlines, Saudia and Riyadh Air.

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Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh and the airlines concerned have been urged to coordinate with the Saudi authorities and assist affected travellers. Priorities include treating passengers with consideration, sparing them prolonged uncertainty at airports, and arranging support with visa extensions and immigration-related matters. Nevertheless, further arrangements will hinge on developments in the regional security situation.