UAE residents' update: Saudi flight disruptions, security alerts and latest regional developments

UAE residents are urged to stay informed about regional security developments and check flight updates before travelling, due to ongoing missile and drone attacks in Saudi Arabia. On Friday, October 16, a UAE official warned about "sleeper cells" involved in Iranian attacks, while the Saudi-led coalition intercepted three drones, two cruise missiles, and a ballistic missile amid ongoing Houthi attacks.

The latest developments include extended flight suspensions and growing concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Key updates on October 16 reveal that UAE officials received "sleeper cell" threats during Iranian attacks, with Dr Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi emphasizing the need to protect residents and maintain daily life. Saudi Arabia intercepted three drones, two cruise missiles, and a ballistic missile.

Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia reported flight disruptions on several Saudi routes, with Emirates canceling services to Dammam, Jeddah, and Riyadh. Etihad Airways cancelled flights between Abu Dhabi and Dammam and Riyadh, and some Jeddah services were also affected. flydubai suspended services to Riyadh, Dammam, and Abha, while Air Arabia canceled flights from Sharjah to Riyadh, Abha, Dammam, and Jeddah.

Indian airlines extended suspensions on selected Saudi routes until October 20-24, and Indian nationals remained in intensive care after an October 10 Riyadh airport attack.

Meanwhile, Iran vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed until Iran's rights were respected, stating that AI had improved military intelligence and targeting. Two Indian nationals injured in the October 10 Riyadh airport attack remained in intensive care, with another in a high-dependency unit. Australia advised Australians not to travel to Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport. Sri Lanka extended suspensions on Colombo-Dammam and Colombo-Riyadh flights until October 24.

Oil prices stood at $105.50 a barrel for Brent crude and $97.44 for US WTI crude on October 16. UAE residents should check airline updates and official travel advisories before departure, allowing extra time for possible disruptions and following safety alerts issued by UAE authorities.