· Abu Aishah · travel-and-transport · 3 min read
Saudi Arabia Bans Charging Power Banks on Flights: What Indian Expats Need to Know
Saudi Arabia has implemented a new safety regulation prohibiting the charging of power banks onboard flights. Indian expats traveling frequently between India and Saudi Arabia must comply with this rule to avoid disruptions.
Source: Saudi Gazette · June 10, 2026
New Flight Safety Rule: Power Bank Charging Banned Onboard
Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued a new safety regulation effective immediately, banning the charging of power banks onboard all flights operating in and out of the Kingdom. The decision aims to mitigate fire hazards and ensure in-flight safety, aligning with international aviation standards.
This regulation applies to all airlines, including those operating on the India-Saudi Arabia route, which is heavily utilized by Indian expats. Travelers must ensure their power banks are fully charged before boarding and refrain from using charging ports or power outlets during the flight.
What This Means for Indian Expats
Indian expats who frequently travel between Saudi Arabia and India are among the most affected by this rule. Power banks are essential for long-haul flights, especially when connecting through multiple airports or when personal devices run low on battery. With this ban, travelers will need to plan ahead to avoid disruptions.
From what I have seen, many Indian expats rely on power banks during layovers or extended travel. This change means adjusting habits—ensuring devices are fully charged before departure and carrying backup chargers if needed. Airlines have been instructed to enforce this rule strictly, so compliance is critical to avoid delays or confiscation.
How to Comply and Plan Ahead
To avoid issues at the airport, Indian expats should:
- Fully charge all devices before arriving at the airport.
- Carry only approved power banks (typically those with a capacity of under 100Wh for most airlines).
- Avoid using charging ports onboard; use the flight time to rest instead.
- Check airline-specific guidelines as some carriers may have additional restrictions.
I have noticed that many travelers ask about power bank regulations during my interactions. This rule is not new globally, but its strict enforcement in Saudi Arabia is a recent development. Airlines like Saudia, Air India, and Flynas have already updated their safety protocols to align with GACA’s directive.
Where to Find Official Updates
For the latest information, travelers can refer to the GACA website or their airline’s official channels. The Absher platform may also provide updates, though this specific rule is more operational than administrative. If you’re unsure, contacting your airline directly before your flight is the best course of action.
Final Thoughts
While this change may seem inconvenient, it prioritizes passenger safety—a goal we all support. For Indian expats, a little extra planning will go a long way in ensuring smooth travels. I’ve always advised travelers to pack smartly, and this is no exception.
Before your next trip, double-check your power bank’s capacity and charge status. Safe travels!
Abu Aishah’s note: This article was prepared for Indian in Saudi Arabia. Facts checked against source. Sent for your review before publishing, inshaAllah.
