Cathay Pacific announced it will resume daily passenger flights to Dubai starting September 1, 2026, and four weekly passenger flights to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from the same date [1, 2, 3, 4]. The airline also plans to restart Cathay Cargo freighter services to Riyadh on August 1, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4].
Cathay had suspended flights to both Dubai and Riyadh in late February 2026 due to the Middle East conflict, citing safety and operational concerns [1, 2, 3]. The conflict also led the airline to raise fuel surcharges multiple times due to rising oil prices affected by the regional tensions [1, 2, 3].
Economy class fares for the resumed Dubai flights in September show prices up to HK$8,853, which include carrier fuel surcharges of HK$2,524 [3].
The decision to resume services follows signs of diplomatic progress after indirect talks between the United States and Iran in Doha on July 1, 2026 [1, 2]. Cathay Pacific said, "Cathay will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation in the Middle East prior to the resumption dates" and emphasized safety and operational readiness as key factors [1, 3]. It also noted that the flights are already open for sale [3].
The timeline began with the suspension of flights on February 28, 2026, followed by the July 1 diplomatic talks, then the August 1 cargo flight resumption, and finally the planned return of passenger flights on September 1 [1, 2, 3, 4].
Cathay Pacific's cautious approach reflects ongoing uncertainties in the region, but it is moving forward with restart plans amid improving conditions. The cargo flight to Riyadh will mark the initial step on August 1 before passenger services fully resume a month later.
