RIYADH — WWE confirmed on Friday that its Crown Jewel 2026 event will take place at an alternative venue in Saudi Arabia after drone attacks disrupted operations at Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport.

WWE has staged major events in Saudi Arabia since 2018 under a long-term partnership with the kingdom's General Entertainment Authority. Crown Jewel has become one of the promotion's flagship international shows, drawing its top roster and marquee title matches each autumn.

The decision followed reports earlier this week that security concerns around the Riyadh airport had forced organisers to review logistics. WWE said the new location would allow the event to proceed as scheduled without compromising the safety of performers and attendees.

The relocation underscores the security pressures facing international sports and entertainment properties operating in the region. WWE, part of TKO Group Holdings alongside UFC, has invested heavily in its Saudi presence, with executives describing the partnership as central to its global strategy.

A WWE spokesperson said the company remained committed to delivering the event and thanked Saudi authorities for their cooperation in arranging the alternative site.