US Embassy in Riyadh:
Security Alert: US Mission in Saudi Arabia (November 3, 2026).
The Iranian-backed Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure that have caused civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions. These hostilities have the potential to rapidly escalate beyond the immediate area.
Effective October 23, 2026, the State Department has ordered US government employees and non-emergency family members of US government employees to leave Saudi Arabia due to safety risks.
US government employees working in Saudi Arabia require special permission from the head of mission to use any airport in Saudi Arabia following recent missile and drone attacks on airports in the kingdom.
US citizens should be aware of potential attacks on airports, airspace closures, flight cancellations and travel disruptions. Please use caution if you choose to use airports in Saudi Arabia. We recommend checking the departure status of your flight directly with the airline and the airport.