The United Arab Emirates has issued an official statement strongly condemning attacks carried out by the Houthi group against Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabia. The statement reaffirmed the UAE’s rejection of attacks targeting civilian facilities and its support for the security, sovereignty, and stability of the Kingdom amid the latest regional developments.
In its statement published on Thursday, October 8, 2026, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the attacks resulted in the deaths of three individuals of Moroccan, Algerian, and Sudanese nationality, while dozens of other civilians sustained injuries. The announcement highlighted the serious humanitarian consequences of targeting facilities used by civilians, including residents, international travellers, and airport personnel.
The ministry described the attacks as a flagrant violation of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and a threat to the Kingdom’s security and stability. It reaffirmed the UAE’s position against such acts and emphasised the importance of protecting civilian facilities and maintaining national security, particularly when infrastructure essential to public transportation and international connectivity is affected.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reiterated the country’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia, expressing its support for all measures aimed at safeguarding the Kingdom’s security and stability. The declaration represents an official diplomatic response to the latest attacks and reinforces the UAE’s stated commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia in matters involving its sovereignty and national security.
In addition to its condemnation, the United Arab Emirates extended sincere condolences and sympathy to the families and relatives of those who lost their lives. The ministry also expressed its wishes for a swift and complete recovery for everyone injured in the attacks, acknowledging the human suffering associated with the incidents and expressing solidarity with those affected.
The announcement is particularly significant because both locations are international airports serving passengers of various nationalities, including Saudi citizens, expatriate residents, and foreign visitors. Attacks affecting such facilities raise serious concerns about civilian safety and the protection of essential aviation infrastructure, which supports international mobility, employment, tourism, business travel, and family connections.
Importantly, the UAE Foreign Ministry’s statement did not announce flight suspensions, airport closures, or changes to airline operating schedules. Travellers seeking information about the operational status of either airport should therefore consult official Saudi aviation authorities and their respective airlines rather than interpreting the diplomatic statement as confirmation of travel disruptions.
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