Brief
Etihad extends Saudi flight cancellations as Iran proposes Hormuz reopening
Etihad Airways has prolonged cancellations to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah, while Iran says it can reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if the US meets its demands, and Egypt considers sending troops to Saudi Arabia.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Etihad Airways announced on Monday that it is extending cancellations of flights between Abu Dhabi and three Saudi cities—Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah—until Saturday, October 24, citing ongoing regional disruption. The airline’s advisory says all Abu Dhabi‑Riyadh and Abu Dhabi‑Dammam services are cancelled, along with four daily Abu Dhabi‑Jeddah flights.
What happened
Etihad’s extension follows earlier suspensions after Houthi attacks forced the temporary closure of Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. The airport reopened on Sunday, but several international carriers, including Etihad, continue to suspend services. Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, reiterated a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if Washington accepts Tehran’s conditions, according to Reuters. The conditions include lifting the US naval blockade, removing sanctions on Iranian oil exports and ending regional hostilities.
What the reports add
Reuters reported that President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi of Egypt has asked parliament to convene an urgent session to authorise military assistance for Saudi Arabia if the kingdom seeks Egyptian support against the Iran‑aligned Houthi rebels. The report notes that discussions were expected to continue on Monday.
What was said
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Reuters that the proposal to reopen Hormuz remains on the table despite stalled negotiations. Etihad Airways did not issue a direct comment beyond the advisory, which advises passengers to verify booking status directly with airlines.
How it came about
These developments follow a series of escalations documented in recent Felo News coverage, including the October 14 Houthis strike on Saudi Aramco and Riyadh airport, and earlier reports on the US‑Iran standoff affecting UAE travel and shipping. The cumulative impact on aviation and energy routes has prompted airlines and governments to adjust operations and diplomatic overtures.
Key facts
- Etihad Airways cancelled all Abu Dhabi‑Riyadh and Abu Dhabi‑Dammam flights and four daily Abu Dhabi‑Jeddah flights until Oct 24. (gulfnews.com)
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if the US meets Tehran’s demands. (gulfnews.com)
- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi asked parliament to convene an urgent session to consider military support for Saudi Arabia. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Middle East Conflict: 5 Key Updates UAE Residents Must Know Today (Oct 19, 2026)”
