Major Saudi conferences to proceed, organisers say, despite deadly airport attack

Two major Saudi energy and investment conferences will proceed as scheduled despite a deadly airport attack, organizers announced. The attacks resulted in four deaths and extensive damage to an airliner, causing widespread flight disruptions. London, Paris, and Berlin have advised their citizens to avoid Riyadh. Despite escalating hostilities with Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, Riyadh maintains plans to host international gatherings and attract investors.

The World Petroleum Congress, scheduled for next week, will take place as planned with foreign leaders and policymakers in attendance. Italian Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin opted for a video conference appearance instead of a land journey. The Future Investment Initiative, the kingdom's flagship investment conference, will also continue from October 26-29.

Safety and well-being remain the top priority, with extensive security measures in place at airports, conference venues, and official accommodations. Notable attendees include JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon and Citi's Jane Fraser. The Houthis have warned against flying over Saudi airspace, designating it a military operations zone following a recent Saudi-backed Yemeni offensive.

In response, Saudi Arabia has launched strikes on missile sites and asserts it has neutralized most Houthis' ballistic missiles.