Riyadh attack Activities in Mecca, Madinah proceed as usual
Daily life in Mecca and Madinah is reportedly continuing as usual following the attack at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. However, concerns remain among Malaysians living in the kingdom and families back home, particularly over possible flight cancellations, delays and changes to travel arrangements.
Despite the security incident, religious activities in the two holy cities have continued without major disruption. Malaysian umrah pilgrims are reportedly carrying out their rituals as planned, although travellers remain dependent on updates from airlines and relevant authorities regarding their journeys.
Ahmad Saiful Maznan Muhamad, an independent mutawwif, or pilgrims’ guide, based in Mecca, said the situation in both cities had remained normal so far. He added that the Malaysian pilgrims under his guidance were staying calm, even as their families in Malaysia expressed concern over the latest security developments in the Middle East.
Speaking to Bernama Radio on Tuesday, October 13, he explained that travel arrangements were being determined largely by airline instructions, particularly for pilgrims travelling on connecting flights or those whose bookings had been affected by rescheduling.
He advised Malaysians scheduled to perform umrah in the coming days to monitor official announcements from their travel agencies and airlines before making decisions about their journeys. Travellers should confirm their flight status and any changes to their itineraries rather than relying solely on information circulating through social media or messaging groups.
For those who have yet to depart for Saudi Arabia, Ahmad Saiful suggested considering direct flights where available. Direct routes may reduce exposure to disruptions involving connecting flights, although travellers should still confirm schedules and any applicable travel advisories before departure.
He also reminded pilgrims that assistance is available through the Malaysian Consulate in Jeddah if they encounter difficulties, including problems arising from flight delays or other travel disruptions.
Meanwhile, Ku Anis Nabila Ku Azman, a Malaysian nurse living in Riyadh, said daily activities in the Saudi capital were continuing as usual, with residents appearing calm despite the incident.
She said she first learned about the attack over the weekend while at home, after receiving information through a WhatsApp group for Malaysians living in the kingdom.
Although everyday life appeared to be continuing, she acknowledged that the incident had caused anxiety among members of the Malaysian community, especially those preparing to return home in the near future. Flight cancellations and delays have become a particular concern for travellers trying to finalise their plans.
Ku Anis also appealed to families in Malaysia to remain calm and continue praying for the safety of Malaysians living in Saudi Arabia. She stressed the importance of obtaining information from reliable, verified sources rather than allowing rumours or unconfirmed reports to heighten public anxiety.
According to a statement issued on Sunday, October 11, the reported attack at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh killed 12 people and injured 309 others. Civil aviation authorities had earlier announced a temporary suspension of airport operations following the incident.
The reported casualties and disruption have raised concerns about the impact on international travel, including journeys involving Malaysian residents, religious pilgrims and visitors travelling between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia. Travellers are encouraged to maintain contact with their airlines and travel providers while awaiting confirmed updates about airport operations and flight schedules.
For Malaysians with family members in Saudi Arabia, uncertainty surrounding travel arrangements can be especially stressful. However, keeping communication open, checking official announcements and avoiding the spread of unverified information can help families make informed decisions during a difficult period.
While daily activities in Mecca and Madinah are reportedly proceeding normally, travellers should continue to exercise caution and follow instructions from the relevant authorities. The priority remains the safety of residents, pilgrims and visitors, as well as ensuring that those affected by travel disruptions receive timely and accurate information.
Source: Bernama