SriLankan Airlines announced on 22 October 2026 that it is extending the suspension of all flights between Colombo and Saudi Arabia through to 1 November 2026. The extension covers both the Colombo (CMB) to Riyadh (RUH) and Colombo (CMB) to Dammam (DMM) routes. The airline cited the prevailing security situation in the region and said flights will resume only when conditions are assessed as suitable for commercial operations.
Third Extension in Two Weeks
The suspension has now been extended twice since it began. SriLankan Airlines first suspended flights to Riyadh on 10 October following a security incident at King Khalid International Airport, with Dammam added on 12 October. An initial extension pushed the resumption date from 18 October to 24 October. The latest announcement, issued on 22 October, moves that date to 1 November.
The airline has not given a firm date for resumption and continues to link any restart to a safety assessment rather than a fixed calendar date. Passengers should check directly with SriLankan Airlines before travelling, as further extensions remain possible.
Who Is Affected
The suspended routes are a key corridor for Sri Lankan migrant workers and their families, with Saudi Arabia one of the largest destinations for Sri Lankan overseas employment. Business travellers and those connecting onward through Riyadh or Dammam are also affected.
Passengers holding SriLankan Airlines tickets on either route should contact the airline to rebook or request a refund:
- Phone (Sri Lanka): 1979
- International: +94 11 777 1979
- WhatsApp (chat only): +94 74 444 1979
Alternative Connections
Several other carriers continue to fly between Colombo and Saudi Arabia. Air Arabia, flydubai (via Dubai), and IndiGo (via Indian cities) provide indirect connections to both Riyadh and Dammam. Gulf hubs including Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi continue to operate without reported disruption from Colombo.
For a full overview of airlines and routes serving Sri Lanka, see our flights to Sri Lanka guide. If you are already in Colombo and need to reassess your onward travel, our Colombo airport guide covers transit, ground transport, and facilities at Bandaranaike International. Our Colombo city guide has hotel and transport options for those staying on while they wait.