Gulf states have poured hundreds of billions of dollars into building aviation hubs linking Europe and Asia, but missile and drone strikes are turning that geographic advantage into a security liability. ACLED reports airports in all Gulf states except Oman have been hit, with at least 28 incidents of projectiles striking airports or nearby areas; passenger traffic at some airports is down roughly one-third year-to-date. Houthi forces recently fired at least 20 projectiles at Riyadh internationa

Gulf states have poured hundreds of billions of dollars into building aviation hubs linking Europe and Asia, but missile and drone strikes are turning that geographic advantage into a security liability. ACLED reports airports in all Gulf states except Oman have been hit, with at least 28 incidents of projectiles striking airports or nearby areas; passenger traffic at some airports is down roughly one-third year-to-date. Houthi forces recently fired at least 20 projectiles at Riyadh international airport and Iran has threatened strikes on Gulf economic and civilian infrastructure. The attacks have led several international carriers to extend flight suspensions. Airport expansion projects are also affected: Dubai is proceeding with a $35 billion Al Maktoum expansion, with a first phase due in 2032, while Saudi Arabia’s new King Salman International Airport may be delayed and some works have been paused after Houthi strikes.