Travel Update: Gulf Air’s Temporary Dammam Hub and Destinations

This is an older update of Gulf Air’s network from Dammam. For the latest list of 17 destinations and travel details, CLICK HERE.

As Bahrain navigates the temporary closure of its airspace, Gulf Air has stepped up to ensure the Kingdom remains connected to the world. By shifting operations to King Fahad International Airport (DMM) in Dammam, the national carrier is providing a vital bridge for passengers during this exceptional period.

Here is an update on the current situation and the temporary network for travellers.

Keeping Bahrain Connected: Gulf Air’s Temporary Dammam Hub

In response to the ongoing regional situation and the temporary closure of Bahrain’s airspace, Gulf Air has shown remarkable agility by establishing a temporary commercial network operating out of Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

While flights to and from Bahrain International Airport (BIA) remain suspended until further notice from Civil Aviation Affairs, the airline has been steadily expanding its list of destinations from the neighbouring King Fahad International Airport to accommodate the needs of citizens, residents, and international travellers.

Seamless Transit for Passengers

To make this transition as smooth as possible, Gulf Air is providing dedicated land transportation between Bahrain and Dammam for all passengers with confirmed bookings. Furthermore, the airline is assisting in the issuance of Saudi transit visas for those utilising this organised land service.

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Travellers are reminded not to proceed to the airport without a confirmed booking and are encouraged to check the airline’s official website and social media channels for the most up-to-date schedules.

The Temporary Network: Where can you fly?

As of late March 2026, Gulf Air’s temporary network via Dammam has grown to include 10 key international destinations across Europe, Asia, and Africa:

1. London (Heathrow) – Connecting the Kingdom to the UK.
2. Paris (Charles de Gaulle) – A vital link to the European mainland.
3. Frankfurt – Supporting essential travel to Germany and beyond.
4. Manila – Maintaining a critical route for the Filipino community.
5. Bangkok – Reconnecting Bahrain with Southeast Asia.
6. Mumbai – A major hub for travel to and from India.
7. Chennai – Expanding options for the Indian Subcontinent.
8. Cairo – Ensuring continued connectivity with Egypt.
9. Casablanca – Providing a gateway to North Africa.
10. Nairobi – Linking the region with East African markets.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

• Booking: Tickets can be booked via the Gulf Air website, mobile app, or authorised travel agents.
• Transport: Gulf Air-arranged buses will transport passengers from Bahrain directly to DMM.
• Visas: Transit visas for Saudi Arabia are facilitated by the airline for those on the organised bus transport. Passengers whose final destination is Saudi Arabia must arrange their own entry visas.
• Updates: Regular services from BIA will resume as soon as the airspace is declared safe for reopening.

READ MORE: Emergency Helpline Numbers and Information for Expatriates in Bahrain