Several senior executives from major international oil companies have withdrawn from an energy conference in Riyadh following a series of missile attacks on the Saudi capital’s airport that have raised security concerns.
On Saturday, King Khalid International Airport was struck by a missile attack that killed 12 people and injured more than 300. The Saudi government attributed the attacks to the Iran-backed Houthi movement based in Yemen, labeling the incidents as “cowardly terrorist attacks” that would prompt a decisive response. This marked the third missile strike on the airport within a week.
On Sunday, a fourth attack was reported when a fire broke out at another terminal at the airport after Saudi forces intercepted a cruise missile, according to official statements. The airport remained closed on Monday, and several foreign diplomatic missions, including those of the United States and Germany, advised their citizens to avoid the facility.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for multiple recent attacks involving ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeting Riyadh’s airport, as well as Dammam airport and two Saudi Aramco oil facilities in the Eastern Province. They issued warnings to airlines, airport workers, and travelers, advising against using Saudi airports or airspace amid ongoing hostilities.
The disruptions have had an immediate impact on participation in the World Petroleum Council’s energy congress, held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Riyadh. Key figures such as the chief executives of ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, Shell, and BP were originally scheduled to attend but subsequently pulled out. According to two individuals familiar with the situation, BP cited travel disruptions as the reason for their absence, stating efforts had been made to participate. Shell declined to comment, while ExxonMobil and TotalEnergies had not responded to requests for comment.
Saudi Arabia’s flagship economic event, the Future Investment Initiative, is also scheduled for later this month and traditionally draws international business leaders. Saudi officials have indicated the event will proceed as planned despite the security challenges.
These attacks underscore the broader regional tension stemming from the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has fueled proxy confrontations across the Middle East. The escalating violence has contributed to volatility in global energy markets.
In response to increased threats, Saudi Arabia has sought military support from its allies. Last month, France committed to deploying troops, radar installations, and defense systems to secure the Yanbu oil terminal on the Red Sea. Additionally, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey — a NATO member — announced the first activation of a mutual defense pact in reaction to the security situation.
The recent escalation highlights the intensifying risks faced by critical energy infrastructure in the region amid proxy conflicts and geopolitical rivalries.