Flight Delayed or Cancelled in Saudi Arabia? GACA's Passenger Rights Rules
Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) sets passenger rights in the Passenger Rights Protection Regulations, which replaced the earlier Customer Protection Regulations. The Arabic text governs; GACA's English translation is for guidance.
When the rules apply
- All flights departing from airports in Saudi Arabia, on Saudi and foreign airlines
- Flights arriving in Saudi Arabia on a Saudi airline, unless the passenger was compensated under the rules of the departure country
- Passengers on discounted tickets and loyalty award tickets
Delays
Airlines must notify passengers of a delay at least 45 minutes before take-off and update the status every 30 minutes. Care during the wait includes an appropriate meal when the delay exceeds 3 hours and a hotel with airport transportation when it exceeds 6 hours.
The regulations measure delay compensation by arrival time compared with your booking:
- 50 SDR (Special Drawing Rights, an IMF unit) for a total delay of 3 to 6 hours
- 150 SDR for a delay of more than 6 hours
If the delay passes 2 hours, you may cancel the contract and request a full ticket refund. If it passes 5 hours, you may treat the flight as cancelled, and the cancellation rules apply.
Cancellations
Airlines may cancel scheduled flights only for force majeure or safety reasons. When they do, the regulations set a refund of the ticket (including extra fees such as seat and baggage fees if you end the contract) plus amounts tied to how much notice you got:
- 50% of the value of the remaining trip, if told 60 to 14 days before departure
- 75%, if told 14 days to 24 hours before
- 150%, if told within 24 hours of departure
Financial compensation does not apply to delays or schedule changes made for security and safety reasons under GACA-approved reports, but care services still do.
Main airports and airlines
Airports include Riyadh King Khalid (RUH), Jeddah King Abdulaziz (JED), Dammam King Fahd (DMM), Madinah (MED), Abha (AHB), and Taif (TIF). Airlines include Saudia, flynas, flyadeal, and Riyadh Air.
Where to complain
Complain to the airline first and keep the reference number. If it does not respond or you do not accept its answer, you can escalate through GACA's official complaints platform: gaca.gov.sa/en/Complaints. GACA's passenger rights page: gaca.gov.sa/en/passenger-rights.
FAQ
What is an SDR worth? The SDR is an International Monetary Fund unit whose value changes daily. GACA has described 150 SDR as roughly SAR 750.
Does this apply to Umrah or Hajj flights? The regulations cover all flights departing Saudi airports, and charter flights as set out in the regulations. Check the details of your booking.
Is there a deadline? GACA asks passengers to complain to the airline first and then escalate within the time limits on its complaints page, so act quickly.
Related guides
- Flight cancelled? What to ask for
- Missed a connection because of a delay?
- Flight delay rules around the world
Create your letter
Delay Draft writes a clear, professional letter that you send to the airline yourself. It lists your flight, the times, the cause you were given, and the rule you are relying on. We are not a law firm, we do not give legal advice, and we do not file claims for you. Questions: claims@delaydraft.com.