Riyadh Air has announced important operational changes affecting selected flights between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with services associated with Riyadh set to operate through Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Al Qassim beginning Sunday, October 25, 2026. The new arrangements include alternative airport procedures, complimentary ground transportation and revised check-in requirements that passengers should review carefully before traveling.

According to the airline’s official travel advisory, selected flights connecting Riyadh with Cairo and several other destinations will operate via Al Qassim Airport instead of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The alternative operating plan follows disruptions affecting aviation services in the Saudi capital. Passengers are advised to check their individual booking confirmations rather than assuming that their original departure or arrival airport remains unchanged.

The affected network includes selected services associated with Cairo, Jeddah, London Heathrow, Lahore, Islamabad and Dhaka. However, the announcement does not establish that every flight on these routes has been transferred. Travelers must confirm the airport assigned to their specific service, including any arrangements that may apply to the return journey.

For passengers beginning their journeys in Riyadh, the airline is offering complimentary coach transportation from InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh to Al Qassim Airport. Travelers using this option can complete check-in, hand over their checked baggage and have their travel documents verified at the hotel before boarding the coach. The road journey takes approximately four hours and thirty minutes, and checked baggage is transferred for the onward flight.

The airline has established specific check-in and departure times for passengers using the complimentary service. Check-in at the Riyadh hotel opens eight hours and fifteen minutes before the scheduled flight and closes six hours and thirty minutes before departure. The coach leaves six hours and fifteen minutes before the flight, making early arrival and strict compliance with the timetable essential.

Passengers may alternatively travel directly to Al Qassim Airport using their own transportation arrangements. Those choosing this option should arrive at least three hours before departure. Airport check-in opens three hours before the flight, while check-in and baggage acceptance close one hour and fifteen minutes before the scheduled departure time.

The changes are particularly important for citizens and residents traveling between Cairo and Riyadh because the alternative airport is located outside the Saudi capital. Passengers should review ground transportation arrangements, coordinate with anyone meeting them on arrival and ensure that their travel documents and booking details match the confirmed itinerary.

Riyadh Air’s advisory applies to selected services operated by the airline and should not be interpreted as a general transfer of all flights between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Other airlines may have different operating arrangements. Travelers are strongly advised to verify their flight number, departure airport, arrival airport and check-in requirements directly with the carrier before beginning their journey.

Source: Riyadh Air.