The United States has ordered non-emergency government employees and their family members to leave Saudi Arabia amid security concerns linked to Houthi attacks. Washington has also warned American citizens about potential missile strikes, flight disruptions and possible airspace closures.
In a security alert issued on October 28, the US Mission to Saudi Arabia said the State Department’s departure order had taken effect on October 23, 2026. The advisory cited hostilities involving Iranian-backed Houthis, including attacks on civilian airports and critical infrastructure that have caused casualties and disrupted travel.
The US Embassy urged American citizens to exercise extreme caution when travelling through Saudi airports, confirm flight status directly with airlines and airport operators, and prepare for the possibility of a rapid escalation in the security situation.
Riyadh Airport Partially Reopens as Flights Face Disruptions
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh partially reopened on October 23, allowing domestic services and some international flights operated by Saudi national carriers. Some flights normally based at the airport were operating from Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Qassim.
King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam remained operational, although passengers faced delays and cancellations.
The US Mission warned that further attacks, airspace restrictions and flight cancellations could disrupt travel. Passengers were advised to verify their flight details before leaving for the airport.
Travellers may consider road and rail transport as alternatives, depending on availability and schedules. Options listed in the advisory included Saudi Arabia Railways, SAT Transportation and SAPTCO.
Land border crossings, including the King Fahd Causeway connecting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, remained operational. Roads and highways around Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhahran were also open.
International airports in neighbouring Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates remained operational, although travellers were advised to confirm conditions with airport authorities.
US Warns Against Filming Missile and Drone Interceptions
The security advisory cautioned American citizens against recording or circulating footage of missile and drone interceptions and their impact sites.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has warned that recording, publishing or sharing such material could result in legal consequences. According to the US Mission, American citizens have been detained for violating these restrictions, including by photographing government buildings, airports and impact sites.
The embassy urged residents and visitors to comply with Saudi laws and follow emergency alerts issued by the kingdom’s Civil Defense authorities.
US government employees remaining in Saudi Arabia are subject to additional movement restrictions. They require special authorisation from the chief of mission to use airports in the country and are prohibited from travelling within 20 miles of the Yemen border.
Special authorisation is also required for travel to Jizan, Asir and Najran provinces, as well as the cities of Qatif, Yanbu and Taif.
Embassy Issues Safety Guidance for Americans
The US Mission said emergency consular services remained available to American citizens. It encouraged them to enrol in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and facilitate contact with diplomatic officials during emergencies.
Americans were advised to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, stay away from areas with a heavy police presence, monitor local media and follow instructions from Saudi authorities.
In the event of an aerial attack, they should move away from glass doors and windows and avoid fallen debris. The advisory also recommended keeping mobile phones charged, remaining alert to surroundings and exercising caution at locations publicly associated with the United States.
The US Embassy in Riyadh can be contacted at (966) (11) 835-4000. The US consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran are also available to provide assistance. American citizens abroad can contact the State Department’s Consular Affairs Call Center at 202-501-4444.
