Aden Airport flights halted on January 1, 2026, due to growing tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE in Yemen. The airport, which serves as the main gateway for areas outside Houthi control, saw passengers stuck in long queues. Many were waiting for medical or personal travel, facing uncertainty amid the shutdown.
The flight stoppage came after disputes over curbs on travel to the UAE. Reports about who was responsible were unclear. A Saudi source denied involvement and said Yemen’s internationally recognised government imposed restrictions on Aden-UAE flights. Meanwhile, the southern-controlled transport ministry, backed by the UAE, reportedly ordered a full airport shutdown instead of complying.
Passengers like Awadh al-Subaihi described the situation as “suffering,” especially for the elderly and patients seeking urgent care. Yemen’s transport ministry accused Saudi Arabia of creating an air blockade, requiring extra checks for flights through Riyadh. Saudi Arabia clarified the restriction was only for Aden-UAE flights.
The crisis reflects a deeper rift between Saudi Arabia and the UAE in Yemen. The UAE supports the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC), which controls parts of southern Yemen, including the transport ministry. Saudi Arabia, backing the internationally recognised government, sees the STC’s actions as a threat. Recently, Saudi-led coalition forces struck the southern port of Mukalla, citing foreign support to the separatists.
Experts say Aden Airport flights halted highlights the fragile control in Yemen and the Gulf rivalry shaping the conflict. Both countries remain at odds, with the UAE pulling some forces and Saudi Arabia warning of threats near its borders.
Aden Airport flights halted may resume soon, but passengers continue to face delays and uncertainty as tensions remain high in Yemen.
