Saudi Arabia

Middle East Travel Alerts

Major Airlines Extend Flight Suspensions Across the Middle East and UAE

The US Federal Aviation Administration has heightened risk advisories for US carriers operating in or over Saudi Arabian airspace due to navigation interference and military activity. Meanwhile, the UK Foreign Office notes ongoing unpredictability across the Middle East, while maintaining that commercial flights between the UK and the UAE continue. Flight delays and carrier suspensions remain present across Dubai and Abu Dhabi routes.

China–UAE News

Saudi Central Bank Exits China-Backed mBridge Cross-Border Currency Platform

The Saudi Central Bank confirmed on September 22, 2026, that it has ended its formal participation in the mBridge cross-border digital currency platform. The initiative continues to operate with central banks from mainland China, Hong Kong, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Macau. Analysts cited by the South China Morning Post noted that the exit removes the Gulf's largest economy from direct membership.