I Felt Like the World Was Ending’: Dubai Resident Recounts Riyadh Airport Attack
A Dubai-based resident has recounted a frightening travel experience after a reported attack disrupted operations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, leaving her stranded for more than a day.
Sunaira Sohail, a public relations executive living in Dubai, was travelling to Bangkok for a concert when her journey was disrupted by the incident on October 8, 2026, according to Khaleej Times.
Blast Creates Panic at the Airport
Sohail said she was at a counter to update her boarding pass for her connecting flight when a blast occurred nearby. The incident reportedly caused panic among passengers, while smoke filled the surrounding area.
According to her account, alarms sounded and passengers were directed towards the arrivals area. She also said that phone networks and airport Wi-Fi were unavailable after the incident, making it difficult for her to contact her family in Dubai.
Passengers Stranded for Around 26 Hours
Her connecting flight to Bangkok, originally scheduled for 2:30 am, faced repeated delays. Passengers were eventually allowed to board the aircraft, but after waiting onboard for more than two hours, they were instructed to return to the terminal.
Sohail said passengers spent approximately 26 hours at the airport amid uncertainty over flight schedules and available assistance.
She also described difficulties finding accommodation, food and water. According to her account, she and her friends later searched for a hotel before arranging alternative accommodation near the airport.
Return Journey to the UAE
The disruption also created problems with her luggage and travel documentation. Sohail said she struggled to establish whether the airline or airport authorities were responsible for her missing bags.
Eventually, she obtained an urgent visa and travelled by bus from Riyadh to Abu Dhabi. The journey began at around 4 pm and ended at approximately 9 am the following day, she told Khaleej Times.
During the journey, she said passengers received security alerts about potential threats.
Travel Disruptions and Passenger Concerns
The incident highlights the uncertainty travellers can face when airport operations are disrupted by regional security incidents. Passengers affected by cancellations or extended delays may need to contact their airline, confirm alternative travel arrangements and retain receipts and documentation related to their journey.
Sohail said she had not received her luggage or refunds more than five days after the incident, according to the report.
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